“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
My Summary & Reflection
Jesus, in this metaphor, calls his followers the light of the world. He says that men do not light a candle and hide the light, but put it on a candlestick so that it can give light to all that are in the house. He instructs his followers to let your light shine before men so that they can see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven.
What does it mean to let your light shine? I can’t hear this scripture and not think of the gospel song that we used to sing when I was little, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.” When I was young, I knew what that meant. I knew that it meant to be to let my positivity and good works speak to others on my behalf. You don’t have to tell people how good God is, show them with your kind actions and words. That’s what it meant to me.
As we grow, the world may try to snuff out your light. People can try to limit your goodness. I’m not sure why, but if your light is shining brightly, some will try to snuff it out. “You’re too nice,” they’ll say. “Don’t let people take advantage of you,” they’ll say. “You’re a sucker,” they’ll say. And these admonitions may work, if you don’t realize that what they’re really saying is, “Turn down that light. It’s too bright!” So, be good, be nice, be kind, be generous, use your gifts to uplift others, as Jesus tells us to do. He’s the one who lit your candle, don’t be afraid to let it shine.
Your Reflection
- What is your light and how can you let your light shine?
- What holds your back from putting your light on display? How can you overcome it?