“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 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.

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that
they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” 
Matthew 5:14-16

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You may agree that the world can seem quite dark when we look around at what is happening globally. We are confronted by it daily in media of all forms. What is God’s plan to deal with this darkness? His perfect plan is to shine through imperfect us. It’s not the preachers, politicians, or even famous evangelists who will save this world. Jesus says, “You are the light of the world.” So, let your light shine before people. 

Jesus calls us to be different. Our relationships get to be different; our homes get to be different; our work gets to be different. An imperfectly-lived, God-honoring life gives convincing testimony of His saving power. That brings Him glory. 

Just before these verses, Jesus articulated that God’s kingdom values are radically different from those of the world. God wants His followers to demonstrate humility, sorrow over sin, gentleness, a hunger for purity, a desire to relieve suffering, a devotion to peace; and a willingness to endure persecution for doing what is right. He knows we can never do this perfectly, so He offered us His Son as our Savior—embodying grace and love for us, simply because our heart is to follow Him.   

Jesus says in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Those who follow me will not walk in darkness but shall see the light of life.” So, we see that God is light, and we get to tell the world about this light. That is the light we are to shine on the world. 

As imperfect as we are, we are still His light, holding forth the Word of Life. You don’t have to light it or crank it up. You don’t have to worry about getting it started. All you have to do is let it out.

Next Steps

Jesus articulated Kingdom values that followers of Him would demonstrate (Matthew 5:3-11). Take some time to honestly reflect on which values you are stronger in and which ones you need more help with.

One whose heart is for Jesus lets His light shine in the world. How will you let Him out into the world?