Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a
bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the
house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may
see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Fireflies…commonly known as lightning bugs, are in the
family of winged beetles and are known for their use of bioluminescence to
attract mates or prey.
I remember as a young boy going to visit my grandma. One of
the highlights was the lights flying around in her yard. We would spend many evenings running through
the yard scooping up these tiny creatures. We then placed them in our
ready-made mason jars, complete with a few holes in the lid and grass inside. We
would bring them inside as an inexpensive nightlight. But if not released
shortly, they and their light would die.
"You are the light of the world-like a city on a
hilltop that cannot be hidden… let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so
that everyone will praise your heavenly Father" (Matthew 5: 14, 16 NLT).
Any type of light has a purpose: fireplaces provided
light, heat, and a place for cooking, oil lamps illuminated dark rooms for
reading, street lights gave light for travelers, and electricity made it
possible for light to appear with the flip of a switch. Fireflies have a
purpose for lighting up, and according to Jesus so do his followers…lighting up
the Heavenly Father.
While hypocrisy (pretending to be something I'm not),
legalism (paying more attention to the letter of the law than the spirit), and
inconsistent behavior will cover my light, loving everyone unconditionally,
accepting others regardless of their life station, and being hospitable will
let it radiate brightly. When it does, others will be attracted to the Christ I
serve.
Unfortunately, not everyone will be drawn to our lights
even when we let them shine effectively. Some will poke fun…and others will
question the validity of our beliefs, but we're not responsible for their
response…just our light. Let God fuel your light so it shines vibrantly.
Dear Lord, just as You have shone brightly for us on the
cross, may our lights for You show so others will be drawn to Your love. In
Jesus’ name, Amen.
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