Shine Your Light

The brilliance of a thousand points of light lifted my spirit as I sang along at a concert. Our voices melded to create a melody that reached the heavens. I’d flown south to visit friends to attend Winter Jam with various Christian artists. One singer, Matthew West, encouraged people to take out their phones and turn on their flashlights. The entire arena lit up as people swayed their devices in the air.

I relished the light show on the other side, but didn’t see any reason to shine mine with so many others engaged. Then I realized that if I didn’t hold up my phone, the people across from me wouldn’t have the chance to appreciate my light. So, I dug out my phone, switched on the app, and proudly waved my hands high so that people could savor the moment of praise.

We can often feel unmotivated to get involved with things like serving in the church or calling someone having a hard day. We can either dismiss them as too small or think someone else will do the work. Yet, the Lord has called every believer to shine their light. Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (NKJV).

When we care for others, it’s not so that we will feel good about ourselves or look virtuous to others. It’s to point people to the love of God that we’ve received and can’t help but share. Others recognize a difference in us than the world when we sacrificially give rather than hoard our time, energy, and talents. May our lives radiate the love of Christ so that others may glorify God.

• What can you do this week to shine your light for the Lord?