The Light of the World?

Consider for a moment Jesus' words - "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Mt.5:14-16

This is a portrait of discipleship. Jesus, who IS the light of the world, re-creates us into the light of the world. We are light only because we are in union with Christ, whose light shines into the world through us. As the moon is a luminary of the sun, so we are a luminary of Jesus.  He states in  Jn.8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."  God speaks the light of Jesus into our hearts, and His light shines through us that we are like stars in the universe that point the whole human race toward real life (Ph'p. 2:15-16).

With this truth, our focus must always be on the light, humbly trusting Jesus to reveal His light through us. Our influence and visibility is a result of who lives in us. We are merely a steward of influence and visibility. Either we will be a luminary for God, or we will reflect the Devil (Jn.8:47). That said, we should get our egos out of the way and let Jesus work through us (Gal.2:20). Only God can measure the significance of your influence and visibility. You may influence one person who will then influence the world. Our focus must be on following Jesus wherever He leads.

This raises the question of how are you using your influence to shine the light of Christ? Have you asked God to humble you as you consider how He has placed you in life to influence for his glory?  We should not cringe when things do not go our way or fret because I didn't get what I wanted today. If I am living for God's glory, then what I want does not matter. If it didn't happen the way I wanted, then it is because either their was something ahead that God foresaw that He preserved me from, or it simply was not His will. 

Pray for his wisdom and discernment as you follow Jesus’ example and direction for your life that He leads you into things that will allow Him to use you for His glory.

Jim