Who Am I - I Am a Light

 

[Jesus said] “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.” (Matthew 5:14–16 ESV).

 

The picture I’ve attached (created by ChatGPT) is a very accurate view of the Parker County Courthouse in the center of Weatherford, Texas. While it is not “on a hill,” it can clearly be seen from our house which is about ten miles south of it. Of course, to see the details binoculars are a necessary tool; however, the lights of the courthouse and surrounding buildings are unmistakable from our vantage point. We are located on a bit of a hill that overlooks the city. It is especially beautiful on a clear night.

 

When we are born again in Jesus, by his Spirit, we undergo a transformation. Our spiritual life is changed as we become new creatures in Christ. As new creations, we transition from being self-serving to being self-giving. We radiate the light and life of Jesus wherever we go. In our reading today, Jesus uses a simple yet profound metaphor in “light.” He is illustrating this personal transformation and the new role we take on in our daily living. Light is life-giving. It brings warmth, energy, and clarity to any situation. When Jesus’ power flows through us, we become a catalyst for positive change in our surroundings.

 

This doesn’t mean we are like the sun—generating light on our own. We are more like the moon, reflecting the light of Jesus so that others don’t have to stumble in the darkness of this world.

 

However, if we hide our light under a bowl, if we try to keep Jesus to ourselves, we make ourselves ineffective. And, worse, people will remain stuck in darkness, blinded by sin. For the sake of the world that Jesus came to save, we need to break out of our holy huddles and shine brightly for Jesus.