Whether big or small, any light is better than darkness. Think of the stars in the sky. There are millions of them and however small each one appears to be, they leave us speechless in their beauty when strewn across the sprawling canvas of a night sky. Not to mention, the patterns they create have guided many a wandering soul to their destination over thousands of years. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the moon, the stars, or all that exists in the realm of our Universe that gives light. What matters is that it all works together to shine a majestic light for us here on Earth.
Following is a passage from contemporary Christian author Bob Goff. Besides his best-selling books Love Does and Everybody, Always, Goff is the founder of a nonprofit organization that promotes and supports education for children in Uganda, Somalia, Afghanistan, Nepal and India. The passage here from Live in Grace, Walk in Love is a reminder that our light, our example if you will, is far more impactful than anything we say. After all, stars don’t talk. They just ARE. Be a Light!
“We Can Be the Light of the World without Annoying Everyone with our High Beams”
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
When Jesus came to be with us, He said He was the light of the world.
Sometimes people of faith try so hard to be a light that they shine a spotlight on their faith every chance they get. They give complicated arguments for their faith or confront people they think are wrong. Regardless of the situation, they always seem to get a word in. Usually they shut down conversations rather than creating a space for light to get through.
There’s a difference between a bright light and a spotlight. We can light up the world with our love, making it easier for people to find their way in the dark. When we light up the world, we’re a gift to the people around us. We’re an encouragement, not an imposition. But when we live with our high beams on, we blind the people around us and ultimately push them away.
We can be the light of the world without leaving our high beams on and annoying everybody. Actually, how about we give love away like a mighty river, then we can be a floodlight. When Jesus said He was the light of the world, it was to illuminate darkness with His love, not to make everyone turn away. Let’s turn off our high beams and light up the world with our love instead. (p 229)
Goff ends this passage with the question “What have you done this week that demonstrates the love of God?” The smallest gestures of kindness and love can mean the world to people. The smallest star is a part of the whole.
Be a Light.
