Bushel Lights
Are you the type of person who lights up a room when you enter?
"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, 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 in heaven."- Matthew 5:14-16
Jesus expects all of us to be the light for others, to show the way in the darkness. How do we do that?
It is not about being better than others, or about outshining anyone. We are not in competition with the world, as some may think. It is also not about pointing out the flaws in people, as anything brought into the light is revealed to all.
To be the light means we are a source, yes, revealing all that can be seen, which may be good or bad, but we do so without judgment.
The without judgment part is the hardest. When we see flaws, we want to correct them, but the flaw is in our eyes isn't it?
I am determined to gain greater insight into our mission as light bearers, and the consequences of shining light on things that wish to remain hidden.
In our modern society, it is impolite to be so bold as to show someone their flaws, so we may fail to take on the task of lighting the way, not wanting to offend or command our views on others.
So, I believe some of us see the task of being the light as something to keep hidden, as Jesus points out with the bushel, while others see it as showing the world that their way is the only way, blinding all in the process.
But our task is to reveal our own light, to show all what we are and can be in this world with Jesus as our guide.
What is revealed in us is what matters most, for in being the truth, we let others see the truth is attainable. It is not a judgment but a revelation.
In the end, though, many will shy away from setting the example for others to follow, feeling it is not their job, or it is being pushy.
Bear in mind, those who are clearly visible by all may be vulnerable to attack. So, it doesn't surprise me that so many will remain hidden.
Which approach will you take? Will you shine your light before others or keep it hidden for fear of offending?
More to come...