Wednesday September 30th, 2015 Matthew 5:13-20
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." (verse 16)
Life needs light, at least that’s what I remember from my biology class when we learned about photosynthesis. That’s physical life. And every winter as I battle seasonal affective disorder, I am reminded that emotional life needs light as well. And of course, every spiritual tradition knows that spiritual life requires light (some traditions even speak of “enlightenment”).
Jesus called himself the light of the world. In this light, we see the self-giving love of God for the world. And we see the path that God has put us on.
The text above is spoken as part of the baptismal liturgy as a lighted candle is given. Jesus identified himself as the light of the world, but he also said to his disciples, “You are the light of the world.” In the same way in which Jesus reveals the love of God to the world, we are called to show God’s love in “good works.” As our lives embody the goodness of God, we become the light that reveals God to a world that seems very dark at times.
Lord, today help me to look for the small ways in which your love can touch the world through me. Amen. — CN
Contributed by This Little Light of Mine
Life needs light, at least that's what I remember from my biology class when we learned about photosynthesis. That's physical life. And every winter as I battle seasonal affective disorder, I am reminded that emotional life needs light as well. And of course, every spiritual tradition knows that spiritual life requires light (some traditions even speak of "enlightenment").
Jesus called himself the light of the world. In this light, we see the self-giving love of God for the world. And we see the path that God has put us on.
The text above is spoken as part of the baptismal liturgy as a lighted candle is given. Jesus identified himself as the light of the world, but he also said to his disciples, "You are the light of the world." In the same way in which Jesus reveals the love of God to the world, we are called to show God's love in "good works." As our lives embody the goodness of God, we become the light that reveals God to a world that seems very dark at times.
