Verse of the Day 10-7-22

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

In Jesus’ time, people used small clay lamps that burned olive oil drawn up by a wick. As Christians, we should be like these simple lamps, providing light in the spiritually dark conditions of this present world. Our lives should stand out from other people in society in a positive and spiritually enlightening way. After all, genuine faith in Christ cannot be hidden, but will be evident to those around us, many of whom are looking for direction and hope in their lives. As Christians, we have the privilege of lighting the way to God by reflecting the life, love and light of his Son, Jesus. This happens not only through words, but often more effectively through actions. In order to truly show people who Jesus is and what he is like, we must follow his example and be among people as ones who serve. We should actively look for ways to assist others and meet their needs at home, at school, on the job and in every aspect of life. By serving people, we reflect Christ’s humility and show his compassion. We break down barriers of resistance and opposition to the truth of God’s Word and the reality of Jesus’ life-changing power.

We can serve people through simple acts of kindness and by meeting practical needs. Of course, we must “always be prepared to give an answer” (1 Peter 3:15) for the reason for our hope and the motivation behind our actions. But many people will not pay attention to the message unless it comes from someone who cares enough to meet their practical needs. For example, there may be times when we must give food for a person’s stomach before we can feed his or her soul. Or perhaps we need to help clean up a neighborhood before we try to help clean up the lives of the people living in that neighborhood. When you work against injustice, share food and clothes, help your family and anyone else who is oppressed, “then your light will raise in the darkness” (see Isaiah 58:6-10). Through practical service and loving interaction, we open the door to share the bold and true message of Christ. Then we will more likely be able to influence people to consider Christ’s claims, believe his Word and yield their lives to him.

Today’s Bible Readings:

Jeremiah 8:8-9:26, Colossians 3:1-17, Psalm 78:32-55 and Proverbs 24:27