"... You're here to be light... God is not a secret to be kept.
(Matthew 5:14, Message Bible).

In Jesus’ day, they didn’t have electricity. It wasn’t uncommon to find a lamp illuminating a single room. Yet, the light, no matter how small, was still so great. In fact, any light in total darkness is still the brightest because it is immediately and unmistakably visible.

As Christians, what is our light speed?

Does it take us a while to warm up or do we instantly illuminate the places we are in? Are we really shining for Jesus or have we used the dimmer switch? Or worse, are there no lights at all?

So just how do we get plugged in, switched on and shining once again for Jesus? How do we get the welcoming warmth and life back into our dark, cold hearts, thereby making Jesus inviting to a dark and cold world?

Firstly, we must see that we've got to stop hiding, get out of our beds and come out of the closets (forgive the pun) and let God’s light shine. Isaiah writes, “Get out of bed... Wake up. Put your face in the sunlight. God’s bright glory was risen for you." (Isa 60:1). It requires action, not apathy.

Secondly, light has got to be shared with others. Don’t hog all the light for yourself, and this means sharing the Gospel... with JOY (Colossians 1:12). “Your light must be the light of the world” and when we do this, oh my word, what a difference we can make in the lives of those who are drawn to the Light, Jesus Christ!  (Matthew 5:14). Notice your light is the world's light. It can’t be so if it is always under wraps!

Thirdly, make the light count. Paul was changed by Jesus the Light and made it his passion to change the world. When we allow the One True Light to irrevocably change us, it spurs us on to want to turn on the flood lights.  When our lights are on, God gets the glory, and that is our reward for obedience! (Matthew 5:16, Message Bible). So go on and splash that glorious light all over the place and carry it, held high into the night (Philippians 2:15, Message Bible).

By Sean Cameron Gunn
Prayer ministry and lay preaching DGFC
www.deogloriakzn.co.za