By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  08/26/20

In Matthew 5:14, Jesus tells His disciples, “You are the light of the world.” As “light” we are to illuminate or make visible. Our lives are to be an ongoing witness to the reality of Christ’s presence in our lives. When we worship God with pure hearts, when we love others as ourselves, and when we do good without growing weary, we are lights shining.

It is important, however, to know that it is not our light, but the reflection of the light of the world, Jesus Christ Himself, that people will see in us.

In Philippians 2:15, the apostle Paul admonishes believers to shine as stars in the sky. The Greek word used here is very similar to the word for the beacon that a lighthouse emits. That beacon warns of danger. It directs to safe harbor. It provides hope for those who are lost.

Every day we are surrounded by people groping around in the darkness, separated from the God who loves them. God uses us, like beacons from a lighthouse, to show the way to Him.

Prayer: Father, help me to be a reflection of You in this dark world. Use me to direct the lost to You. Help me to be a bright light wherever I go. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).