Light of the World

When Jesus spoke of light, he spoke of himself: “I am the world’s Light. No one who follows me stumbles around in the darkness. I provide plenty of light to live in.” (John 8:12, MSG) He also spoke to his followers: “You are the light of the world — like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.” (Matthew 5:14–15, NLT)

The Lord’s straightforward words highlight his global mission to rescue our world from forces of darkness and his fixed charge for Christians to represent his light in the world. Even as the light of Jesus shines in us so that we can walk without stumbling, his light shines through us so that we can bring light to a world in darkness. Clearly, one can understand why this week’s collect leads us to pray “that he may be known, worshiped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth.”

We are Christ’s light on the earth. Nothing can change that mission. Our light must radiate wherever our daily journey takes us, not merely when we gather together on Sundays and other days of worship. After all, a light that doesn’t shine is useless. So let your light shine!