Session 2

What it means to be the light of the world

From Matthew: A 28-Day Devotional

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In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus compares his followers to light, saying we "are the light of the world," unable to be hidden. No one puts a lamp under a bowl because a lamp is designed to help people see in dark places. Christ's words and actions showed the true nature of the world around Him. Christ-followers give light to those around them by doing and saying what Jesus did. By growing in relationship with Jesus every day, following Him step by step, we partner with Him in spreading the truth.

Another of Jesus's disciples, John, said it this way: "This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin" (1 John 1:5-7).

Light cannot be anything other than what it is. It's bright; it dispels darkness; it enables people to see what they are doing. God is light, and since He sent His Holy Spirit to live inside believers, so are we. As his ambassadors on earth, we shine even when we don't know it.

Jesus told His followers to "let your light shine before others," calling them to live an active faith, not a passive one. Put your light on its stand. Your circumstances are an opportunity to shine brightly for the Lord and to share God's overcoming truth with those around you. Your family and community can tell what you believe by how you live.

Reflect:

• What situation are you in right now in which you have to exercise faith in God?
• How can you share your faith with others in the midst of your circumstances?