The Joy of the Journey: Be the Light

The Joy of the Journey

Be the Light

In every generation, the world wrestles with darkness, confusion, moral decay, fear, and hopelessness. Yet, in the midst of it all, God has placed His people as lights to guide, to reveal truth, and to reflect His glory. Jesus’ call in Matthew 5:14-16 is as urgent today as it was two thousand years ago: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all 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 who is in heaven.”

This passage reminds believers that being light is not optional; it’s our identity. Darkness doesn’t have to be overwhelming when light is present. The nature of light is to illuminate!  Even the smallest light overpowers the blackest night. But it requires intentionality. We must seize the opportunity to shine when others are afraid to, to speak truth when silence feels easier, and to live differently when conformity seems safer.

We must acknowledge the darkness that surrounds us.  The Apostle Paul described the moral and spiritual condition of the world as one of darkness: “For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light” Ephesians 5:8. Before Christ, we were part of that darkness, we were blind to truth and bound by sin. But salvation transforms our very nature. We are no longer merely in the light; we are light in the Lord.  Recognizing the darkness means we cannot ignore what’s happening around us—corruption, hatred, division, and moral confusion. Yet rather than retreating in despair, we are called to step forward as light-bearers. The darker the night, the brighter the stars must shine.  

The truth is, we are only reflecting the true light.  Our light is not self-made. We are not the source but the reflection of Christ’s glory. “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12. When we abide in Christ, through prayer, Scripture, and obedience, His light radiates through us. People see His love, His peace, and His character shining from our lives. Just as the moon reflects the light of the sun, we reflect the light of the Son of God.

Being light means being distinct. It means forgiving when others hold grudges, offering hope when others despair, and standing for righteousness when compromise seems the easier choice. The world doesn’t need more opinions; it needs more people who live like Jesus.

The church must seize every opportunity to shine the light of Jesus!  Paul urged the church to “make the best use of the time, because the days are evil” Ephesians 5:16. Opportunities to shine for Christ are everywhere, at work, in schools, in our neighborhoods, and online. But often, fear or complacency keeps our light dim.

Every conversation, every act of kindness, every word of encouragement can be a spark that points someone toward God. You don’t need a platform to shine…you need presence. When you love your enemies, serve those in need, or live with integrity, you are seizing divine moments to push back the darkness.

In conclusion, we must not hide our light.  The world doesn’t need more darkness; it needs more light. Christ has placed you exactly where you are to shine. Whether in your home, your job, your community, or your church, you are God’s beacon in this hour.

Let your light shine boldly, not for applause, but for the glory of your Father. For one day, when all is revealed, those who shone for Christ in the darkest times will hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”  So don’t hide your light, lift it high. Shine with love, truth, and grace. For when you do, the darkness will never win.  Remember, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5.