We are the Light of the World
Today’s verses express the importance of our Christian witness before all the world; our actions have implications and not just on ourselves. Jesus calls Christians as light of the world that should not be hidden. We are also called the salt of the earth because we bring flavor to the world. We are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden so the world can see our good works before man so our heavenly Father will be glorified. His light will guide our way so we do not have to face confusion or moral uncertainty alone. His light will shine in difficult decisions, challenges, and even in the darkness of sin and despair. Christians are to be beacons of truth and goodness, meant to shine in the darkness by reflecting God's loving guidance to others. We live to bring God glory, always, no matter what life may bring, so others might see Jesus in us. We may be the only Jesus they see.
Matthew 5:14-25
14-[Jesus said] “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.
15-Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
16-Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
17-Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.
18-For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled.
19-Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
20-For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.
21-You have heard that it was said to those of old, you shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.
22-But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ Shall be in danger of hell fire.
23-Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you.
24-leave your gift there before the altar and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
25-Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you to the judge, the judge hand you over to the officer, and you be thrown into prison.”
John 8:12
Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness but have the light of life.”