You Are the Light Of the World
Scripture Reading — Matthew 5:1-16
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Speaking to the crowds that have gathered to hear him, Jesus declares: “You are the light of the world.” Jesus, the light of the world, is placing his own title onto the crowds. In doing so, he transfers his identity to them. Similar to when God directed Aaron to bless the Israelites and put his name on them, Jesus repeatedly blesses the crowds throughout the first part of this passage. Then he gives his identity to them. They are the light of the world, because Jesus has chosen them to be his light in the world.
Jesus makes clear that this new identity is not intended to be hidden or kept private. Rather, the people’s new identity in Jesus is to be as bright as a city on a hill—visible for all to see. He adds that their light is made known through their good deeds and will lead others to glorify God.
Yesterday we celebrated Jesus as the light of the world, signaling the start of God’s new creation. Today we see that God has saved us in Jesus in order to shine the light of Jesus through the way we live. Though our actions do not save us, our good deeds and our sharing of God’s love help others to believe that God’s new creation has become real and available to us in Jesus Christ.
God, help us to celebrate Jesus’ birth by making the light of Jesus more real and believable through lives that shine brightly, reflecting your love and goodness in the beauty of your new creation in Christ. Amen.
About the author — Chris Schoon
Chris Schoon lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has served as a pastor in both the U.S. and Canada. He also served as the U.S. director of Thrive, a ministry of the Christian Reformed Church in North America focused on equipping and encouraging churches and ministry leaders. Chris enjoys hiking, playing board games, and hanging out with family and friends. He is married to Hennie, and they have four adult children.
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