Have you ever had to navigate a room in the darkness? Chances are you have, and stubbed a toe or hurt a knee as you banged into something or someone.
We live in a world that is as dark as any room without power — perhaps darker — and we cannot make our way in it without hurting ourselves and others. What can we do? Look for the light! We find it in Jesus. He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12).
Darkness is a metaphor for sin, ignorance, and spiritual blindness. Jesus is the solution to these problems. He is a guide to those who are lost or struggling and a source of hope and salvation to humankind.
Furthermore, when we start to follow Jesus, we get lit up too. As the moon reflects the light of the sun, we start to reflect the light of the Son — SON. And the closer we follow him, the brighter we shine. Therefore, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, "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).
Being the light of the world means living in imitation of Christ, leading a life that reflects his teachings and example. Jesus never told us to do anything that he didn't do himself, and one of his most touching demonstrations was when he got down to his knees one day and washed the feet of sinful men. When he stood up, he said to his stunned audience, "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you" (John 13:13-15).
When we do what Jesus did, showing love, compassion, humility, mercy, and kindness to others, we become little beacons of light, illuminating the way for others and leading them to the path of truth and salvation that can be found in Christ and him alone.
Let us choose light today. Let us choose the light of the world that is Christ. And let us choose to be the light of the world.
God bless you.
