Let Your Light Shine

As children, many of us learned a simple yet powerful song called "This Little Light of Mine." The lyrics encouraged us to let our light shine and not hide it under a basket. While this catchy tune might have seemed like a cheerful childhood melody, its essence finds roots in the timeless truth of Isaiah 60:1-3  "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn."

The Lord spoke these words to the Israelites, calling them to rise and shine because their light had come. Although originally addressed to the chosen people, this call to radiate God's light is not exclusive to ancient Israel. As modern-day Christians, we too are vessels of God's light, illuminated by the glory of the Lord.

Jesus reiterated this message in Matthew 5:14-16 when He declared that we are the light of the world. We are not meant to be hidden; instead, we are like a city on a hill, visible to all. Just as a lamp is not placed under a bowl but on a stand, our faith is meant to be displayed for everyone to see.

To keep our light shining brightly, we must heed the lessons from both Isaiah and the teachings of Jesus. We are called to be set apart, like a city on a hill, distinguished by the brilliance of God's presence within us. Our lives should be a testimony to the transformative power of Christ.

How do we maintain this radiant light? By walking with God daily, immersing ourselves in His Word, and communing with Him in prayer. The more we align our lives with His truth, the brighter our light becomes. As we nurture our relationship with God, the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—will naturally abound in our lives.

In a world often shrouded in darkness, our illuminated lives become beacons of hope, drawing others towards the goodness of God. So, let us not be hesitant or fearful to let our light shine. As we walk with God, our light will pierce the darkness, guiding others to the path of salvation and eternal joy in Christ.