Growing up in a Christian home, I was often told to be a "light to the world." I love this instruction because light is exactly what this world needs (Matt 5:14-16.) However, I would like to take this command a little further and challenge us to think about where our light comes from.
As Christians, we have to be be careful of falling into the dangerous trap of being consumed with our own light. It is easy to become so focused on ourselves and what we are doing, that we begin to search for glory in our own lives and actions. Jesus wants us to be lights to the world, but He also wants us to remember that He is always the source that we should reflect. John 8:12 “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." I love Francine Rivers' idea of being a moon and reflecting God's light for two reasons.
As Christians, we have to be be careful of falling into the dangerous trap of being consumed with our own light. It is easy to become so focused on ourselves and what we are doing, that we begin to search for glory in our own lives and actions. Jesus wants us to be lights to the world, but He also wants us to remember that He is always the source that we should reflect. John 8:12 “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." I love Francine Rivers' idea of being a moon and reflecting God's light for two reasons.
- First, it challenges us to make sure that we are glorifying Him and not ourselves. Simply because our actions are right, doesn't always mean that our hearts are focused on giving Christ glory. Surrender everyday to the Lord, and ask God to get the glory from our lives. The minute we feel ourselves trying to be the source, step back and acknowledge that He is the only true source of light. Anything we do without Him will fail. Our light will only shine temporarily before it runs out of power, but His is an everlasting source.
- Second, We can take comfort in the realization that we are not the source of our light. Sometimes the day ahead of us feels too challenging, and the pressure of being a light sounds exhausting. On those days, it is especially comforting to know that He is not asking us to be the source, but instead to be the moon that reflects the Son.
Who or what are we reflecting today? What do others see when they look at our social media accounts, the words we use, or the way we dress? Do we reflect Him in ALL aspects of our lives?
Reflect His light. Stop searching for your own glory, but instead ask Him how you can serve and reflect Him.
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