In Matthew chapter 5  Jesus made this statement, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven".

A light brings forth the ability to see and discern with clarity. It allows us to see things for what they really are. On the other hand, darkness has the opposite effect. It does not remove the truth that is there, it simply hides it. This is what is spoken of in John chapter 3, "men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil". This darkness is not a physical one rather it dwells in the heart of a man.

When Christ walked this earth He confidently allowed His light to shine. This was done through the signs, miracles and wonders only to illuminate the truth of who He is. Every deed, every word, every encounter shed light on the One He identified as.

Imagine for a second if Jesus first identified to being a carpenter rather than the Christ? Instead of mending hearts and souls He would of mended broken doors and faulty roofs. Perhaps this would of had a temporary impact, at least until something else failed and broke down. Maybe He would have been more consumed with designing and consctructing His own cross rather than hanging on it?

However, thanks be to God that His priority was shining in the light! What about us? Do we live in the dark identities of that which is temporary and passing away? In other words, do people know us first and foremost as devout believers and followers of Christ? Or do they know us first as anything otherwise?  The latter is a darkness in which dwell lies.

John 8:12 says, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life”. Once possessed, this light is to radiate through the vessels His children. Just as Jesus shone in all of His encounters, words and actions, may it be our prayer that God's Holy Spirit be the oil that burns within us. By this, others will see the truth that is revealed through that light, and through that the Father in Heaven will be glorified!