Called Into Radiance

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” — Ephesians 5:8 (NIV) 

Before Christ, we didn’t just walk in darkness—we were darkness. Not merely ignorant, but complicit. And while prevenient grace whispers truth even before we fully awaken to it, many of us choose to ignore that whisper, preferring the murk to the clarity of light. But now, in Christ, we are not merely enlightened—we are light. That’s a radical transformation.

The Amplified Bible expands verse 9 beautifully: “(for the fruit [the effect, the result] of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth)”.

This isn’t just moral behavior—it’s a visible, tangible outpouring of divine presence. Goodness. Righteousness. Truth. These are the fruits we bear when we live as native-born children of the Light.

Paul’s exhortation is clear:

• Verse 11 (AMP) warns us not to participate in “worthless and unproductive deeds of darkness,” but to expose them—not through condemnation, but through integrity, courage, and godly character. This begins within. We allow the Spirit to search us, to shine light into the hidden corners of our hearts. We name what no longer belongs in the life of one awakened by grace. We walk as children of light, bearing fruit in goodness, righteousness, and truth.

• Expose the deeds done in darkness. This is both evangelistic and prophetic. We shine light into hearts longing for grace, and we stand against injustice, oppression, and exploitation—those forces that thrive in secrecy and silence. In modern parlance: “If you see something, say something.” But for the people of God, this is more than civic duty—it’s holy responsibility. We expose darkness not to shame, but to heal. Not to condemn, but to liberate. Our light must be bold enough to confront what harms and tender enough to guide toward what heals.

This is not a passive calling but a summons to movement—to walk, to live, to shine. To be the light of Christ in a world that still gropes through the murk.

Lord of Light, you have called us out of darkness and named us your own.  Where we once stumbled, you have taught us to walk with purpose.  Where we once hid, you have invited us to shine. Help us to bear the fruit of your Spirit—goodness, righteousness, and truth—not only in quiet moments, but in the face of injustice and fear. Grant us the courage to expose what harms, compassion to heal what’s broken, and clarity to walk as children of light. May our lives reflect your radiance, so that others may see and be drawn to your grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim