Living Out Jesus’ Words in a Dark World
Matthew 5:14 – “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”
There’s something breathtaking about the way Jesus sees His followers. When He looked out at a crowd of everyday people—fishermen, families, the broken and the hungry—He didn’t see weakness. He saw light.
He still does.
Jesus said, “You are the light of the world.” Not you might be, or you should try to be, but you are. That means wherever you go, the light of Christ in you goes too.
Let that sink in.
Your Light Comes from Jesus
Light isn’t something we generate—it’s something we reflect. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12), and when we walk with Him, His light shines through us.
We live in a dark and confusing world. People are searching for hope, truth, direction, and love. And God’s strategy to reach them? You. Me. All of us, carrying His light into our families, our workplaces, our churches, and our neighborhoods.
That’s not a heavy burden—it’s a beautiful calling.
Don’t Hide Your Light
Jesus went on to say, “No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket.” But how often do we do just that?
We hide our light when we…
- Stay silent when we should speak truth in love.
- Blend in when we’re called to stand out.
- Hold back kindness, thinking it’s too small to matter.
- Let fear, shame, or insecurity convince us that we’re not ready or qualified.
But hear this: The light in you is not about you. It’s about Christ in you. And He never asked you to shine perfectly—just faithfully.
Shine Where You Are
You don’t need a stage or a spotlight to shine. You just need to be willing to show up with the love of Jesus in your everyday life.
- Encourage someone who’s weary.
- Listen to someone who feels invisible.
- Forgive when it’s hard.
- Worship even when you’re not on the platform.
- Be bold when the Spirit prompts you to speak.
Whether you’re leading worship on Sunday or praying with your grandchild on Monday, your light makes a difference.
You’re a City on a Hill
Jesus said, “A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Your life was never meant to be hidden. People are watching how you live, how you love, how you respond to trials and triumphs. And when your life reflects Jesus, it points people to the hope only He can give.
So don’t shrink back. Don’t disqualify yourself. Don’t wait until you “have it all together.”
You are the light. So shine.
A Prayer to Close:
Lord, thank You for calling us the light of the world. Help us reflect Your love in every conversation, decision, and interaction. Let us shine in such a way that others see You in us—and are drawn to Your grace and truth. Amen.
