Today’s Bible Reading:
1 Samuel 15-16; Psalm 34; Matthew 5
Journal Entry on a passage from today’s reading:
Topic: Discipleship
SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:14,16
Jesus says…
14 “You are
the light of the world. 16 …let your light shine
before men, that they may see…” (Mt 5:14, 16 NIV)
OBSERVATION:
These are the words of Jesus, but the first question to be
answered is to whom are His words here addressed? Matthew 5 begins the
recording of one of Jesus’ best known and longest teachings, the Sermon on the
Mount. Jesus was speaking to the multitudes of people who had come to hear him,
but His words are addressed specifically to His followers—“His disciples”
(5:1). In this passage (vv.14-16) Jesus is speaking directly to committed
disciples, those who face persecution because of their belief in Him. To you
who are ridiculed, insulted and lied about because of your faith (v. 11), Jesus
imparts an awesome calling: Become what I am to the world.
Jesus Himself was “the light of the world.”
“I am the light of the
world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light
of life.” (Jn 8:12 NIV)
APPLICATION:
Now Jesus is saying that when you receive me into your life,
you become an extension of me, you
become the light of the world. So do not hide that light! Do not cower in the
face the harsh rebuffing you will undoubtedly face because of me, because as
mean and evil as people may be, I love them and they desperately need the light
of life I bring. My light in you is now yours. Let your light so shine before
men that they may see their own wretchedness and their own need to live in the
Light.
PRAYER:
Lord, bless me with the strength and courage to openly live
my faith. May I unashamedly allow the Light of Your presence within me to shine
for all to see. In Jesus’ name. Amen. -AP
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