Light of the World
By Barbara Borkowski of Independence, MO, USA
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 NRSV
Jesus used the everyday things of life to share the most important things in life. In our world of convenience and technology, it is easy to turn a light switch on and off to light up a room or create darkness. We have the ability to choose light.
In the ancient world, light had to be carefully tended with lamps and oil and wicks. If you weren’t planning ahead, you could easily find yourself in complete darkness, with no way out of the dark until the next morning. Those ancient folk understood how even a small flicker of light could penetrate the darkness.
Jesus used the metaphor of light to describe how and what we are to be as followers and disciples. Our actions, our behaviors, and our way of life need to be as vibrant and visible as a light shining in the darkness.
On Wednesday afternoons, the South Crysler Community of Christ in Independence, Missouri, chooses to shine God’s light in the world. Fifty neighborhood children crowd into the building to attend JAM (Jesus And Me). Each week brings a new lesson and activities that focus on respect, peace, and the worth of all people. As JAM ends, families are invited to join the congregation in a fellowship meal with an open invitation to Christ’s peace.
May we each choose to share Christ’s light in our neighborhoods, cities, and even the world.
Prayer Phrase
God is with us.
Invitation to Spiritual Practice
Holy Attention
Ordinary time is a season for awakening to God’s presence in all the details and circumstances of our everyday, ordinary lives. Wherever you are, pay attention to your surroundings. Allow yourself to be fully present for a time with whatever is before you. Where do you sense God with you right now exactly where you are?
How does today’s story invite you to discover God in the realities of your everyday life?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
