Let Your Light Shine
Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)
14 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 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. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
While we are not boastful about what we do in the name of Jesus Christ, we do show our light in the things we do to help others. Our shining light gives those around us the opportunity to see us doing what God has asked of us. It inspires others to participate with us or even do something on their own that shows they are followers of Jesus.
Many years ago, I was able to participate in a Volunteers in Mission trip to Israel. We worked with a priest who was building a pre-kindergarten school onto his church. Father Abuna was a kind man who saw a vision. We were able to help make that vision become reality.
Each evening during our trip, one person was responsible for the devotion. When it came to be my turn, I was worried because I just didn’t know what to do. I hadn’t really done any devotions, especially in front of a group of people who, in my eyes, were biblical scholars. Our group consisted of pastors, lay speakers, and others that were smarter than me in their faith journey.
I set my Bible on the table on its spine. I let it drop open to wherever it may. It opened to Matthew chapter 5.
I read the chapter over and over and finally let God have his way with me. I prayed, “God, none of this makes sense to me. Help me understand what you are telling me.” He placed my focus on verse 16. We were there to let our light shine and do good work giving glory to God our Father.
This scripture has meant so much to me ever since. I am reminded of it when I take my youth on mission trips or mission activities as they are learning how to let their light shine without being boastful.
Prayer: God, help us to remember that our good works encourages others to do the same. Watch over us as we do these good works so that we are not boastful but a blessing to someone in need. In Jesus name I pray. Amen
Many years ago, I was able to participate in a Volunteers in Mission trip to Israel. We worked with a priest who was building a pre-kindergarten school onto his church. Father Abuna was a kind man who saw a vision. We were able to help make that vision become reality.
Each evening during our trip, one person was responsible for the devotion. When it came to be my turn, I was worried because I just didn’t know what to do. I hadn’t really done any devotions, especially in front of a group of people who, in my eyes, were biblical scholars. Our group consisted of pastors, lay speakers, and others that were smarter than me in their faith journey.
I set my Bible on the table on its spine. I let it drop open to wherever it may. It opened to Matthew chapter 5.
I read the chapter over and over and finally let God have his way with me. I prayed, “God, none of this makes sense to me. Help me understand what you are telling me.” He placed my focus on verse 16. We were there to let our light shine and do good work giving glory to God our Father.
This scripture has meant so much to me ever since. I am reminded of it when I take my youth on mission trips or mission activities as they are learning how to let their light shine without being boastful.
Prayer: God, help us to remember that our good works encourages others to do the same. Watch over us as we do these good works so that we are not boastful but a blessing to someone in need. In Jesus name I pray. Amen
Thomas Harris, Simpson United Methodist Church, Moundsville, WV thomppg@aol.com, Certified Lay Speaker
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