What Do We Shine?
“You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:14-16
There is something special about playing under the lights. It provides a magical experience that all athletes dream about. Maybe it’s because it defuses nature and allows us to see in the dark.
Everything seems more important when a light is shining on it. Trophies seem brighter, stations seem larger, and players seem more important with the flash of the cameras. Light illuminates what we did not see before.
Light is meant to shine; it can’t not shine when turned on. Everyone looks toward the light to see what is being highlighted. If Matthew 5 tells us we are light, what are you illuminating?
Are you showing people the characteristics of our Father? Or are you highlighting yourself or the things of this world? Matthew 5:14-16 tells us that our light cannot be hidden. Whether you know it or not, you are showing people one thing or another.
We have a fantastic opportunity to show others the love of God. Are we using our light to do that? Often, we use our light to highlight our works and deeds. That’s what the world wants us to use our light for. God called us to be a light, not for ourselves and our gain. We are called to be a light that leads people to Christ.
- Do you think you use your light to highlight God or self?
- What does it look like to use your light for God?
“Lord, we come before You now asking for forgiveness for the many times we have used our light and platform for self-promotion and gain. Remind us that You gave us a light to lead people closer to You. Show us how to do that today. Amen.”