“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14 (NIV)

My classmates and I excitedly lined up to make our way to the auditorium for school picture day. My joy quickly evaporated when the photographer began shifting students around based on height. As he approached me, he waved his hand and dispatched me to the end of the line, saying, “Wow, you’re tall.”

Tears threatened to ruin my picture-day outfit. I heard giggles arise as I slowly made my way to the back, taking my appointed place with the all-boy crew.

For many years after that, I slouched to hide my height — my shoulders hunched, eyes riveted to the ground, mostly speaking in an unassuming whisper instead of my natural voice.

Maybe you’re like me and have tried to fly under the radar. I want to let you in on a very powerful secret: As God’s children, we were not created to exist in the shadows. 

Jesus declares this truth in Matthew 5:14: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Let that soak in, friend.

Even as Jesus’ followers, many of us stay hidden in the darkness for fear of revealing our light’s full wattage. Perhaps we’re afraid of rejection, or maybe we’re not sure how to use the power of His light. How are we and others transformed when we live out the fullness of Christ in plain view, under the illuminating light of Jesus?

• When we stand firm in the faith … our posture is confident, not self-conscious, and our voices are steady, not trembling, as we “keep it real” while revealing how the love of Jesus Christ has transformed us.
• When we emerge from the shadows … we can boldly find ways to make people feel understood, seen and loved because we know everyone we meet is desperately in need of hearing how Jesus Christ saves.
• When we know who we are as His beautifully made creations … we can be confident in our Kingdom placement — and it is not at the back of the line.
• When we stay strong … we’re filled with the mighty courage of the Holy Spirit to do God’s work unashamedly.

We are called to wholeheartedly understand and humbly accept the assignment to stand tall as followers of Jesus, “the light of the world” (John 8:12, NIV).

Many of us face hidden battles daily. As much as we might want to hide our struggles and put on a brave front to show the world “we’ve got this,” it’s the light of Christ that keeps us going. Let’s resist the temptation to shrink fearfully into the background. The world wants and desperately needs to see God’s light in action through us so that His glory will be visible to all.

Father, thank You for being my Protector, Guardian and Light. Help me to turn away from the things that keep me from shining for You. Fill me with Your courageous Spirit to help me boldly share Your goodness with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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1 Peter 3:15, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect …” (NIV).

What is one thing you can do today to be a much-needed light to someone? Share your ideas with us in the comments!

© 2024 by Regina Lewis. All rights reserved.