If you are reading this message, you will probably agree that we are living in a time of darkness, uncertainty, confusion, disillusion, etc., but firmly holding onto our hope. When we think we have heard the worst of the worst, something else overrides or supersedes it. It seems as if someone does something or says something that causes us to scratch our heads and ask, “what in the world is going on or what’s next?”
Now is a time for all believers to really let their lights shine. In a world where there is so much hatred, evil, sin, wars, hunger, disrespect, abuse of power, etc., our hope must be in the light of the world as we know it, Jesus. Did you know that when you smile, laugh, do a good deed, show compassion, love your enemy, forgive the unforgiveable, etc., you are allowing your light to shine. When we feed the hungry and shelter the homeless, we are allowing our lights to be a beacon to others. What we must not do is allow distress and dysfunctions cause us to slip into a state of anxiety, depression, or bewilderment. Regardless of how confusing and unpredictable things may seem, someone must stand with integrity and continue doing the right things. If we continue to allow our lights to shine, I believe there will be a change of trajectory.
In 2 Corinthians 4:6, the apostle Paul places emphases on the concept of Christians living in a way that reflects God’s light and glory to the world. Believers are admonished to live blameless and pure lives. We are to let our lights shine in the world by demonstrating God’s love and truth through our actions. We are called to show compassion, love our enemies, and forgive even when it is not easy.
Rather than the world influencing and causing believers to live in darkness, let believers try being influential over the world through our actions and our speaking. Just suppose we were able to conduct ourselves in a manner similar to Jesus. We are encouraged in James 4:10 and 1 Peter 5:6, which says, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that at the proper time he may exalt you.” We must continue to acknowledge our dependence on God and set aside pride and come before Him with an open heart.
A familiar salutation recently recited by persons when asked how they are doing, the response was, “Walking on sunshine!” May all of us live in such a way that we might declare also that we are walking on sunshine. If we are walking on sunshine, we are in the midst of a power greater than us. This phrase simply means we have the joy of living in the presence of God and He is the maker and provider of the light that comes from the sunshine. If we continue to exhibit a walking on sunshine attitude, just maybe we will influence others to be persons operating in light and love.
Now is not the time for God’s children to go into hibernation and become dormant. There was a time when darkness was lurking all around us, and we reacted in some positive and supportive ways. Now it just seems that society accepts anything, regardless of the damage it does to humanity.
There are lots of people who are hurting and suffering because of the present state of the economy. Some are experiencing hardships for other reasons and we must not forget or overlook them. Now is the time for us to provide some mutual care, show concern and be accountable for our actions. In simple terms, let our lights shine in times that looks dismal for so many.
In Mattew 5:14-16, Jesus calls us to let our good deeds and God given light shine openly, so that others may see them and give glory to God. We are like a lamp placed on a stand not under a basket or hidden, so that everyone may have light.
If you have heard the song, Shine on Me, there is a line that says, I came to Jesus as I was, weary, worn and sad. I found in Him a resting place. And He has made me glad. Shine on me, let the light from the lighthouse shine on me.
My brothers and sisters, let the light from the lighthouse shine on you today.
Just my thoughts!
Robert Earl Slade, Pastor
