Let your light shine

Did you see the solar eclipse near the end of May? I was working outside when I noticed the sunlight dim. Imagine what it would be like if the sun was eclipsed all of the time. Genesis 1.18 says that God made the sun and the moon and stars “to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness.” Without the sun, we would not enjoy daylight, warmth, vegetation or life. Without the sun, we would not be able to see the moon, for the moon reflects the light of the sun. God gave another light also. John 1.9 “The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.” Jesus said he was the light of the world. In Matthew 5.16 Jesus said “let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Like the sun which is the greater light and the moon, which is a lesser light; Jesus is the greater light and we are the lesser light. The moon does not have any light of its own, it only reflects the light from the sun. Christians do not have any light of their own, we reflect the light of Christ. How much of the light of Christ do you reflect? Some are full moons and while others are only slivers. During the eclipse of the sun, the moon stood inbetween the earth and the sun, blocking the sun’s light. I wonder how many Christians get in the way, blocking the light rather than reflecting it. Everything about us-our attitudes, words, actions, feelings, dreams and goals; can either reflect Jesus or they can reflect our own sinful nature. Either people see Jesus in me or they see me living for myself. I know we just finished studying Romans on Sunday mornings, but let me give you an exercise. Go back and read chapters 7 and 8. When you read chapter 7, circle the word “I” every time. When reading chapter 8, circle the word “Spirit,” Chapter 7 is all about the struggle, living in defeat because sin has gotten the better of us. What emerges is a Christian who is focused on self. But then the victory comes through Christ Jesus. Chapter 8 is all about living for Jesus in the power of the Spirit. This is where real victory and joy occur. This is also when our focus shifts from ourselves to Christ. It is when we step aside and let the light of Christ shine on us and then through us to those around us. Dear friend, let your light shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your heavenly Father. Blessings, Pastor Pete