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Be a Lamp

Scripture Reading:  Matthew 5:13-16

Key Verse: Matthew 5:15

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.

One of the clearest teachings Jesus gave concerning our contribution to our world is found in our scripture for today’s devotional.  Jesus started the passage with the illustration of salt.  Salt was a critical element in their world as it preserved food for long periods of time.  Salt made a difference in people’s lives.  Jesus used these concepts to call His followers to live lives that made a difference in their world.  To really make His point, Jesus states the negative: But if salt loses its saltiness…it is thrown out and trampled by men.  When we lose our effect on those around, blending in so much that no one sees any difference in us, what good are we to God’s kingdom?

            Jesus goes to another illustration to drive home His point.  He tells us that we are to be “light to our world”!  Probably thinking of Jerusalem that sat on a hill shining bright at night, Jesus said: “A city on a hill cannot be hidden.”  Then Jesus continues by saying people do not light a lamp and put it under a bowl.  These are powerful images in anyone’s mind.  We can understand what is expected of us if we are going to be His followers: Contribute to the good of people in your world!  Contribute through the church.  Contribute in your neighborhood.  Contribute at work among your co-workers.  Every day, make this your mission: Let my light shine!

Father, I may be tempted to put a bowl over my light today.  Grant me the courage to shine bright for you!  I will contribute.  In Jesus’ name, amen.