Come to the Light
Everyone living in areas with Daylight Savings Time are relieved now that their days are getting longer. However, research shows that crime increases with longer evenings. Criminals need darkness and they’re not typically ‘morning people’. Jesus knew the power of light on humanity from the beginning of time. God called Him onto the scene in Gen. 1:3 when He said, “Light… be.” Jesus even called Himself the Light of the World. Interestingly, as we close this series from Matt. 5 we find Him calling His disciples the light of the world. 1 John 4:17 reiterates that truth:
By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world.
As He is–so are we in this world. It is our responsibility to live our lives circumspectly: watchful, guarded, cautious, and vigilant. Our thinking and our responses should be different than the world. It’s a better way, a higher way to live.
“Wisdom is better than foolishness, just as light is better than darkness. (Ecclesiastes 2:13 NLT)
Jesus’ good works brought glory or honor to His Father. He loved people, He served people, and He taught His followers how to live in the light of God. Since we are children of light (Eph. 5:8-14; 1 Thes. 5:5-11) where we go and what we do not only affects us but also those around us. Luke 11:33-36 is a powerful warning to us from the Savior. He tells us that our eyes, what we see, brings either light or darkness. He cautions us to be careful so that our witness to others is bright and shining. We bring glory to our Father, life into the lives of our family and friends, and wholeness to ourselves when we live this higher life.
John 1:5 tells us that darkness cannot overcome the light in you as you live in Christ. He gives you Holy Spirit driven power to forgive and be in unity with those around you. If you say that you’re a believer, a follower or disciple of Jesus Christ, then you will be careful regarding your words and deeds. If you fall, and you will, be quick to repent and He promises to forgive and cleanse you (1 John 1:5-7). When Paul was struck down by the light of Jesus in Acts 26:13-18, He was given an assignment.
‘… to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me.’ (Acts 26:18 NLT)
When you spend time face to face with God, coram deo, He gives you light (John 3:21) and direction (2 Cor. 4:6). Go ye therefore and burn brightly to those in your life. It’s an excellent way to live.
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