2014: The Light

Happy New Year again, this first weekend of 2014!

This year I am going to attempt to maintain a better balance between all of my responsibilities and interests. As part of that balance, I will be refocusing some of my attentions here. And the press on my heart for this year ... 2014: The Light

• The light Who is Jesus Christ
• The light which is so desperately needed in dark times
• The light that we as Christians have been called to be

When we look in Scripture, John 8:12, we see Jesus testifying of Himself, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

That is true encouragement for these dark times which have engulfed the earth. II Timothy 3:1-5 tells us, ‘in the last days perilous times will come: for men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power.'

Yet, there is a comfort in knowing that we do not have to be consumed by the darkness. Rather, we have the ability to walk in the light and, to not just walk in the light but to carry that light within us and to others through the power of His Holy Spirit.

Matthew chapter five tells us that, “You are the light of the world”

The implication, is that we are to shine as beacons of light, like a lighthouse in the darkness shining the way for those who are navigating their way through the murky situations of life – doing our part to ensure they safely reach home.

There is a quote which so aptly captures the role of a believer as a lighthouse and beacon of hope. It notes, “I can think of no other edifice constructed by man as altruistic as a lighthouse. They were built only to serve." - George Bernard Shaw

Likewise, we are built only to serve …

Only, we are not constructed by the hands of men. In Jeremiah 1:5, the LORD speaks and declares, 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.  Before you were born, I set you apart and appointed you as My prophet to the nations.'

The call to be the light is not a glamorous one. It is a selfless call, often lonely and long enduring. It is in many respects a thankless position and is frequently overlooked. However, it is incredibly important and its impact is far-reaching, adding value to the lives of those who benefit from it … even if they are unaware of how it is blessing them.

It is not a difficult job –

Yet, it is a job which will require your steadfast commitment. You may fulfill that call by rising early in the morning and praying for those that will never know of your care, concern and sacrifice. You may fulfill the call by being a dedicated and loving mom and wife or by leading your household in godliness. You may shine the light with your extended family, in your school or in your place of business. You may be able to answer the call for light on the game field or in the local coffee house. In every sector of life there exists opportunities to shine the light of Christ into dark situations and circumstances.

So remember –

‘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. 

I am excited about this year!

I am expecting great things and am certain it will be a year of tremendous spiritual growth, opportunities to be a meaningful light in the world and unexpected blessing. Have a blessed day. Here is a great song by Josh Wilson to get your morning going … 

Pushing Back the Dark