Uncovering the Light

In the same way, let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16 (NRSVue)

Read Matthew 5:14-16

Jesus begins this passage with a statement of fact, “You are the light of the world.” (v. 14)  Jesus does not promise that we will–or may become–but that we are! That day, on the mountainside in Galilee, Jesus addressed the disciples and potential followers. Regardless of their group, he told them all they were the light.

Light drives away the darkness. It is God’s first act of creation, “‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” (Genesis 1:3). As we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) in our mother’s wombs, we are created to be lights. Our purpose from the day of our birth is to give glory to our Father in heaven.

Jesus warns us not that we lose our light but that it becomes covered. Here are some examples of “bushel baskets” that may cover our lights and how we may overcome those things.

Fear of Judgement: Sometimes, fear of what others might think or say prevents us from shining brightly. We worry that our faith might be misunderstood or ridiculed. Remember that God’s opinion matters most. When we live authentically, our light impacts others positively. Let’s step out boldly, trusting that our good works will glorify our heavenly Father.

Comfort Zones: We often prefer the safety of our comfort zones. Venturing beyond them feels risky, so we keep our light hidden. Embrace discomfort. God’s purpose for us lies outside our comfort zones. When we step into unfamiliar territory, our light shines more brilliantly.

Comparison and Insecurity: Comparing ourselves to others dims our light. Insecurity whispers, “You’re not good enough.” Recognize that God uniquely designed each of us. Our light doesn’t need to match anyone else’s—it simply needs to burn brightly. Let’s celebrate our individuality and encourage others to do the same.

Busyness and Distractions: Our fast-paced lives can bury our light beneath tasks, responsibilities, and distractions. Prioritize spending time with God. Nurture your relationship through prayer, Scripture, and reflection. As we align our priorities, our light will shine more consistently.

Let us seek to remove the blankets of embarrassment, fear, comfort, comparison, and busyness that cover our light. As we do, we’ll fulfill Jesus’ call to be the light of the world, illuminating the path for others and giving glory to our heavenly Father.

Heavenly Father,

We gather before You, grateful for the light You've placed within us. As we reflect on Your Word, we recognize that we are not merely vessels of potential light; we are already shining beacons in a darkened world. Today, we seek to uncover that light, removing anything that hinders its brilliance.

Lord, when fear creeps in—when we worry about what others might say or think—remind us that Your opinion matters most. Empower us to live authentically, boldly displaying our faith. May our good works glorify You, even if misunderstood by the world.

Loving Father, our comfort zones often keep our light hidden. But You call us beyond safety into purpose. Help us embrace discomfort, knowing that Your plans lie outside our familiar boundaries. May our steps illuminate the path for others.

God, when insecurity whispers that we're not good enough, remind us of our unique design. You crafted each of us intentionally. Our light need not match anyone else's—it simply needs to burn brightly. Let us celebrate our individuality and encourage others to do the same.

Lord, we sometimes bury our light beneath tasks and responsibilities in our busy lives. Teach us to prioritize You—to seek Your presence through prayer, Scripture, and reflection. As we align our hearts, may our light shine consistently.

Father, we lay before You the blankets of embarrassment, fear, comfort, comparison, and busyness. Strengthen us to cast them aside. May our uncovered light draw others to You, illuminating their paths and bringing glory to Your name.

In Jesus' precious name, we pray. Amen. 

Blessings,

Pastor Tim