- John 1:4 In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men
Light is used throughout the Bible to illustrate the characteristics of God and symbolize truth. Light is used to contrast darkness or evil. It is used to guide His chosen people and inspire us to become as lights. In John:1-9, John the Baptist describes Jesus as the “light of all mankind” and as the light shining in the darkness that the darkness does not overcome. In John 12:46 Jesus says of Himself “I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness.”
What is most amazing is that in Matthew 5:14 Jesus tells us as His disciples that “You are the light of the world.” We, as His disciples, become the representation of the light God and Jesus in the world that we operate. We are His ambassador and representative to shine in the darkness. It is we that are charged to work by the power of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the hearts and minds of men. It is we that, by representing Truth, become the light to the world that overcomes darkness and glorifies our Father in heaven. We(you and me) are charged to continue the very work of Jesus.
What a powerful charge and a w e s o m e responsibility! As a follower of Jesus do you recognize the power of the light within you? When you enter a room, Jesus is there. When you make contact with a friend or stranger, Jesus is there. When you pray for the sick, call out evil, or teach of His Truth, Jesus is in you and with you. If this realization does not inspire you to be a better father, mother, friend, boss, employee, servant or leader nothing will. Think about the contacts, relationships and opportunities that you have to be light in your family, community or workplace. Jesus tells his disciples
John 10:7-8 “And as you go, preach, saying, ”The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give.”
I am reminded of the WWJD bracelets of years ago and am challenged again to think on What Would Jesus Do because that is EXACTLY what He charges us to do as followers of Him. Jesus says in Matthew 28:18 “All authority has been given to Me in Heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations”. ALL AUTHORITY is given to Jesus and Jesus commands us as His disciple to go, preach, heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers and cast out demons.
If we live to be obedient this command given with “all authority”, how does it change your life? How does it change your actions as a leader in your family or business? How does it change your actions as you relate to friends and strangers?
May the Light and Love of Christ go with you always.
