“You are the light of the world, like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:15-16, NLT).
First, Jesus came in person to demonstrate what it looked like to live as a beacon of light. He showed us how to reflect God’s characteristics and qualities. Light living is manifested in truth-telling, deeds of kindness, generosity, compassion and mercy.
Dark living manifests itself in lying, stealing, name calling, killing, character assassination, divisiveness, hate and greed.
The devil’s argument has always been that hate is more powerful than love, and selfishness is more satisfying than generosity.
Jesus knew that once he left and went back to his Father, he would leave a void of light behind. Unless he could inspire his followers to embrace truth-telling, compassion, and generosity as a way of life.
As compelling as dark living is, it is no match for the satisfaction and joy that come to those who live to love!
Rich DuBose writes from Northern California.
