Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16 KJV
The Contention:
Again, we read Jesus' instructions to men He had chosen to be His disciples. These were men from all walks of life, from tax collectors to fishermen. The connection was submission to the authority of Jesus, and a readiness to follow Him daily. This is what qualifies anyone to access the daily resources and provisions available for disciples. One of these resources is light, and as simple as it may sound, this is very critical to the journey of faith we have been called to. One interesting definition of light is: 'the natural agent that stimulates sight and makes things visible.' Among many things, light would therefore be the thing that reveals things and make them known. It is hard to define the original source of light outside of God, and anyone who would understand the power and efficacy of light should seek to know and understand who God is.
The Inspiration:
What is the use of light if it is not seen or it is unable to help another see his way? Why light a lamp if you do not intend to make use of it? What difference would additional light make in a place where there is already sufficient light? These questions are quite relevant to the season we are in now. The value of light is seen in its impact and effect: how does one light a lamp and then hide it? It is before men that the value of light must be placed. It is men who must be attracted to the light in me, so that they can come to know the God I serve. If I am indeed a child of God, His light must flow out of me. It is not a matter of choice, but of compulsion. The light is revealed by the things I do. I cannot hide at all, and even my silence is a message to men around me. I cannot afford to live carelessly.
The Conclusion:
When men see my good works, they must praise and glorify my father in heaven. It would mean that God is indeed my father, and His imprint is visible on and in my life. Faith without works is dead, and the proof of faith is always seen in what I do and how I do it. Actions have consequences, and it will be foolish to think I can get away with hypocrisy or eye-service. I have to sort out my allegiance and identity, so I can focus on the assignment I have been given by God. God does not need me to be God, but it is a privilege to be His visible representative to the world I have been placed and planted in. It also tells me that an account will be demanded of me of how I represented this God. Am I truly shining out for God or do I first need to clean out the dirt? God waits; God's time of favour is here.
No comments:
Post a Comment