Did you ever walk into a dimly lit room and try to read? Having to squint your eyes and only see vague details. Have you ever had a light fixture that flickered on and off? That’s annoying! Having to get up twist the light bulb and jiggle the electrical cord.
All the apostles journeyed countless miles and ministered limitless hours with Jesus. Certainly, a deeply loving and devoted friendship developed as a result. They were eyewitnesses of a Man who not only loved people deeply, but also intentionally met their needs abundantly. The disciples learned to whom Jesus belonged as Matthew 16:16 tells us, Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Yet they did not fully perceive Jesus’ magnificent glory until after His resurrection. Hebrews 1:3 explains, “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact expression of His nature, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” (HCSB)
As believers, our Creator, who made light shine out of nothing made a way for His light to shine through us (2 Corinthians 4:6). This glorious light reflected by Jesus is the “exact expression” of God’s nature which is perfect and holy. We are not without hope in our humanness because someday we will dance and celebrate upon the beaming and beautifully lit streets of heaven. And, it’s there we will reflect God’s glorious light perfectly thanks to Jesus’ perfect work on the cross (Rev. 21:23).
Practically Speaking: There are days when being a light is the last thing on my mind. How about you? It is a daily struggle for us all. However, as believers, we are the only ones who can light up this dark world in whatever we do, like the sun piercing through dark rain clouds. Ask yourself what kind of light you shine. Is it a flickering night light, does it have a disconnect and occasionally go out, or does it light up a room as if it were a 100 watt light bulb? Do you look radiant?
No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:15-16
