Spreading the Light
We can see throughout the Bible how God uses the contrast of light and darkness to tell us about Himself and what is good or evil. It starts in Genesis when God speaks light into existence. His light lives within all believers of our Lord Christ Jesus. The prologue in John is a precise summary of God’s story, but let us focus on one part in particular:
“In him was life, and that life was the light of men. That light shines in the darkness, and yet the darkness did not overcome it.” (John 1:4-5, CSB)
As Christians, we carry this same light in us when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. It is our specific responsibility to shine that light in dark places. Jesus gives us His light to share in the great commission:
“All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:18-20, CSB)
God is telling us directly that He is the light inside men, and we are to share His light with others. My first question is, “Am I worthy to do this?” (That answer is yes, by the way, for us all).
My second question is, “How do I do that?” God is so gracious that He gives us story after story of using completely imperfect and unqualified people to do His work for His good purposes. By doing so, we give Him glory and make Him known to the world around us. In short, we are talking about ministry and evangelism. These are action words, and they evoke a myriad of thoughts and feelings around them. These words can also elicit hesitation at times if we are honest about it.
I have found myself in a family of missionaries who have traveled to faraway places to share the Light with others. I never asked for this, but it is where God led my footsteps. The Gospel is spread, people are healed, and disciples are made. The impact is real and tangible. Hearing songs of praise ring out in a different language brought me to tears. These songs of joyful praise crying up to Heaven were so beautiful that the birds went silent to listen. Obedient people who choose to go to the nations, donate goods, help with funding, and partner in prayer together spread His Light. Spiritually oppressed people are set free. This is His plan.
Mission trips are a highly visible and structured form of ministry and evangelism. The most needed, however, are much more subtle and have no rigid structure. This is called daily Christian life. My parents and grandparents taught me about responsibility in ways I can truly appreciate now. My grandfather would take me to visit friends and neighbors, often with a mission in mind of cutting down a dead tree, fixing a fence, or some other chore that needed to be done. My grandmother seemed to always have encouraging words for everyone she met and was the kindest woman I’ve ever known.
My father was much more in the background of my life but was a rock and strong shelter. He got up every morning to go to work and provide for our family. And my mother was a stranger to none. She genuinely cared about the people in our community, always served others, and was truly the salt of the earth that seasoned the life of everyone she touched. These are all things that may seem minor or insignificant in the day-to-day flurry of living life, but it all mattered to Him. They each loved God and loved their neighbors, just as Jesus commanded us to do.
I ask you to think about how you may be spreading the Light to those around you. Do you see everyone you meet as God’s unique masterpiece? Offer to pray for people you encounter who need healing or encouragement. Take time out of your day to reach out to a coworker, friend, or family member to foster a deeper connection. Give your time to a worthy cause in a selfless manner. Worship while you work. Be kind, but also walk in the authority God gives you in truth. Look for every opportunity to praise Him to others. Take care of your family; it is our first mission and ministry.
As we begin a new year, these are good challenges to consider. The time for action is now, as the new year brings a fresh opportunity to live out the light of Christ in tangible ways. As I’ve gone through the years of my life, I have learned that other people notice what you do and how you carry yourself. They notice the words you use, the things you do (or don’t do), how you treat others, and especially what you put on your social media. I encourage you to meditate on the Word, day and night, and attend regular meetings with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Join a small group or Bible study as we are accountable to each other to hold to the simple standard of loving God and loving our neighbors. If you cannot find one, start one. This is an action item in ministry, evangelism, and spreading the Light.
On a final note, Jesus sums up His vision for us in a beautiful metaphor:
“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, CSB)
The time is now. Go forth and spread the Light in order to push back darkness!