Originally published on April 2, 2020
This Little Light of Mine
One of my favorites places to be, is outside the 3 & 4 year-old class during our first service on Sunday mornings. It’s quiet for a while as the lesson is being taught, then all of a sudden you hear these sweet voices singing….“this little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine; let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.”
The song goes on to say that I’m not going to hide it, or let Satan blow it out. This may seem like a simple basic truth that we teach to young children; but in light of our current situation, I feel it may be a challenge to many of us today. There is no doubt that we are living through a dark time, but we have a Hope…a Light, whose name is Jesus.
The basis for this simple child’s song is found in Scripture. In Matthew 5:14-16, as Jesus is teaching to the crowds, He commands his people to not only be the light, but to let their light shine so that others may see Him. This is not about elevating themselves; rather, it is about directing others to God. When we are following after God and trying to live a life that reflects Jesus’ character, we will illuminate a light that draws people to us and creates a curiosity about the source of that light.
He also told them not to hide their light. If you think about lights around your home, where are they? They are on tables and shelves, hanging on walls and from ceilings. They are useless if we hide them in closets or attics. We need those lights out in the open so they can do the work they were meant to do. You see, when we allow God to work through us, His light shines for all to see. Light and darkness cannot coexist. Darkness (satan) has no power, when God’s light is present.
So, why is it so hard to live out the tenets of a simple child’s song when we are going through dark times? How can we be the “Light” that we are called to be, when we feel alone and isolated. I’d like to encourage you today with some ways you can let your light shine.
Be a Witness
Read John 1:6-9. John was sent by God to bear witness to the Light. If you encounter others who are scared and uncertain, be a light in their darkness by sharing the hope you have in Jesus with them. Pray with them. Share your testimony.
Take the opportunity to write out your testimony. What do you know to be true about the Lord? What has He done in your life? Answering these questions prepares you to testify to the truth and be the light.
Be Obedient
Read John 8:12. Others will notice when you choose to follow God, rather than the ways of the world. When you live out the Truth, your light is bound to shine.
We have the opportunity to do just that during this time. Are we following the guidelines that our government has requested of us? Are we putting others safety before our desires? Are we being grateful for being safe at home? Are we calling our friends and loved ones, so they can hear our voices and feel connected in some way? These are all simple things we can do to be a light in the darkness during this uncertain time.
Be courageous
Read Matthew 5:14-16. Putting yourself out there to defend your faith and shining your light for all to see, might seem a little scary. Jesus proclaimed that we are the light of the world and our light is not to be hidden. So, do something bold!
Film yourself reading a story to a child and send it to them, teach your kids a song in sign language, dance with your family (or alone!), write a blog to encourage others. There are so many ways we can use our gifts to be a light to others.
I leave you with this thought: Ephesians 5:8 says, “You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” Although most of us remember a time when we walked in the darkness, we now know how AMAZING life is when we walk in the light of the Lord! Take some time to let your little light shine….let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!
Blessings,
Susan Smith
