Let Your Light Shine

     I am a candle lover from the word "go".  Anyone who comes to visit my home soon sees an abundance of candles on every table.  Their warm glow is relaxing and the fragrances are delectable.  Plus
they are a big help when storms and hurricanes come our way.  
     In 2004 when we experienced three hurricanes, no one in my family complained about my many candles as it was the only light we had at night.  Three days without electricity meant candlelight meals and conversations.  When we blew out the candles to go to bed, I have to say the darkness was complete since our entire neighborhood had no electricity or street lights.  It was an eerie feeling to say the least.  

The Disney World Electric Light Parade

     Perhaps this is why the Lord emphasized the importance of shining our light in the darkness all around us in this world.  Matthew recorded the Lord's Words in his Gospel when he wrote in 5:14-16:  "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."
     We are meant to shine dear friends!  When God lights the fire of His call in our hearts and we respond to His invitation to salvation, we become  a new light in this world.  We are to dispel the darkness by revealing a whole new way of living which will bring glory to the Lord.
     Anyone who has ever seen the Disney World Electric Light Parade will tell you how spectacular the sights and sounds are.  All the street lights of Disney are darkened so that the electric displays on the floats are magnified.  It is amazing to behold.  I never grow tired of seeing this.  In the same way, we are to shine, sparkle, and act as beacons to the lost.  Our lives should clearly point the way to salvation for those stumbling in the darkness of their sin.
     In practical terms, this means that wherever we are in a job, in school, at home, or with friends, we are to be a light in that place for the sake of Christ.  I frequently hear people complain about the folks they work with or go to school with who do things which they believe are wrong.  However, their solution is to quit and go somewhere else.  This may be contrary to the very purpose that God has allowed them to be in that position.  God has sent us as ambassadors to share our faith, to stand our ground, to shine for His glory.  We cannot do that if we are hiding our light under a bushel for fear we will be laughed at if we speak up.  Even if we change jobs or find a different school, this will not change the fact that we live in
a world that is lost and dying.  A new job or a new school will ultimately have its own problems.  What will bring change is our witness shining in contrast to the sin around us.  Our call in this life is to be men and women of character reflecting God's glory as a result of our good works.

Disney World Electric Light Parade

     I cannot imagine an evening without the soft glow and fragrance of my candles.  They make such a difference in the atmosphere of our home.  In similar manner, we need to remember how we can change the atmosphere at work, at home, or play by shining the light of Christ and being His sweet fragrance to others.  May our lives radiate the glory of our Savior in all that we do so they may be drawn to Christ.  Selah!


I welcome your thoughts and comments here my friends.  Please leave a word of encouragement so others might also be edified.