When treading cautiously in dark, unfamiliar places, we appreciate a flashlight’s beam. Whether the brilliant light is on our cellphones or through dedicated handheld torches, shining a light on the path AHEAD gives us more confidence in the journey. We are more likely to see obstructions or uneven ground, enabling us to adjust our steps. And we can confirm that the reflections we see are not wild beasts waiting to eat us for dinner.
While sitting at my makeup table, I appreciate having a light shine ON my face. When blending the foundation or drawing fine lines with my eyeliner, I’m much more precise when I can see what I’m doing. I’d never attempt tweezer work without a bright light! I admit it’s nice to turn the light off and try to forget the imperfections and signs of aging the spotlight reveals.
I’ve had a few minor surgeries that were successful due to good lighting in operating rooms. Having that light shine THROUGH my body to highlight the internal parts is welcome in such cases! I’m guessing no surgeon is good enough to perform in the dark.
When I think of Jesus as the Light of the World, I can compare His light to how I used it in the examples above.
First, He shines light AHEAD of us to guide our steps. In John 8:12, Jesus says, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness because you will have the light that leads to life” (NLT). Even before Jesus arrived, the psalmist knew of this light status: “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105, NLT).
The Holy Spirit also shines His light ON us to reveal the areas He wants us to work on. This lengthier passage from Ephesians 5 reminds us of this focused light.
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. This is why it is said:
“Wake up, sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. (verses 8-16, NIV)
And when we live our lives for Christ, He shines THROUGH us. As others watch our actions and listen to our words, our behavior glorifies God. People will want to know what makes us different, giving us opportunities to share with them how great our God is. Jesus calls us—His followers—lights, too. In His famous Sermon on the Mount, He said:
“You are the light of the world. A town built 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 others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16, NIV)
Sometimes each of those uses of light can make us feel uncomfortable. We might make poor decisions leading us to paths we’d rather Jesus not find us on. We are embarrassed to have wandered off the straight and narrow way as we followed fleshly desires and don’t wish to highlight the detour. Highlighting our imperfections and slip-ups can be even more uncomfortable, especially when the area the Holy Spirit puts His finger on is one we don’t want to change. Finally, when we acknowledge that God’s Great Commission applies to us all, the responsibility of shining for Him is immense. Are we up for the challenge to be lights for Him?
The good news is that the Light of the World shines brightly enough to make up for our deficiencies. The Godhead in Father, Spirit, and Son support and strengthen us as they shine AHEAD, ON, and THROUGH us. Isn’t it wonderful to know we don’t walk this life alone?
Pray with me:
Light my path, Father. Holy Spirit, shine a spotlight on things I can change for the better. And shine through me, Lord, like a town on a hill. Amen.
Valda Goudie is a teacher and author of the Tickle Me with a Crowbar! series (available on Amazon and Kobo.com). Visit her site at valsstage.com and download Book 1 for free.
