In my search for the word put and put on in scripture, I encountered various ways we are to put on the character of Jesus. It stimulated my thinking and gave me the inspiration for this “Put it on me please, Jesus” Lenten series. Today’s scripture from Matthew 5:14-16 causes us to stretch our thinking and directly applies to our witness in the world.

 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Jesus is telling us that our witness to the world is all about His light of truth, wisdom, salvation and eternal hope. He wants us to shine for Him. In verse 15, Jesus tells us where we are not to put our light of faith. We are not to hide it where it cannot shine. Jesus is explicitly telling us to put the light of our faith in Him on display for everyone to see. How can it do any good for others if it is hidden? The good things we do are to be shown and done in His name. When we do them, we are glorifying Him.

This begs the question, Is your light shining? Have you put it under someone or something so that your witness for Him is not evident? What good is our faith in reaching others with the power of the gospel if we don’t seek to ignite others with our faith.

Consider this, Because Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead, I have the light of truth to share with others and He will use me and my light of faith to bring Him glory. Jesus reassures us in John 8:12 that He is the light and His way leads to life. “Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

Seek to show His light each day as you pray and witness to others with acts of love and service. His light will illuminate your life and those around you, as you seek to emit His light.

Linda