Illuminate the Night – Dr. Hona Amer

Scripture:

“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 (MSG)

Perspective:

When you drive by a lighthouse at night, the light illuminates the sky. It is there to help the boats out at sea know where to find land. Lighthouses are even more valuable in a storm. For a boat lost at sea, the light coming from the lighthouse is a matter of life and death.

When Jesus came to bring salvation to the world, He did not intend for the message to be shared only with the disciples. He knew that for people to hear His message it was going to have to be spread by people. When you came into relationship with Jesus, your opportunity to share His message with your world began. Yet, sometimes we hold back. On one hand, transparency is highly promoted today. People are given the freedom to express their opinions about a variety of subjects. However, when it comes to God, the conversation can be hesitant or forced. We can talk about everything else besides God. Yet, the opportunity to reach out to people starts now. Are you being a “lighthouse” to people in your world? Is your life illuminating hope, restoration, grace, and forgiveness? When people are at their darkest moment, they need a light to illuminate their life. You are the light to the world. By being transparent about your faith, you open up your life and allow others to experience God’s salvation power in their lives.