“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:15 NLT
City Lights Draw Attention
When you drive near to a city, you begin to see light. Street lights adorn all the roads leading into the city. The bigger the city, the more light. Soon you see lights for businesses adding their neon light to the glow.
Just as the light grows more intense as you approach the city, the light within a believer’s soul should be more evident as they are approached. The joy of the Lord should be upon our faces at all times. Does that mean we act giddy with excitement at all times or have goofy grins continuously? Of course not.
But there should be a quiet confidence radiating throughout our being. We are under the care of the Good Shepherd and the more we realize it, the more our faces should show that quiet trust and contentment. He has promised we would have what we need. He is near – no need to fear.
A City Cannot Be Hidden
During the world wars, cities tried to hide their light so that approaching bombers could not find their target. I’m thinking in today’s world, a goal of total blackout would not even be possible. Just the lights of all my devices in my home look like the landscape of a miniature city when all the lamps and overhead lights are out. Multipy that by thousands of homes and businesses and it seems impossible to keep a city hidden from prying eyes.
[My 5 minutes are up, but read on as I wrap up.]
We represent Christ. We are not to hide from the world, or be a part of the world; but instead demonstrate to the world what it looks like to live like Christ. The more Christ-like we become, the more we will stand out just like that city on a hilltop that can’t be missed.
A City Has An Order and A Government
The very definition of a city is a place with boundaries. There is some type of order and government in every city, or else there is chaos.
We believers are governed by the Light of the World, Jesus; and our goal is to be a reflection of Him. Remember, He didn’t come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. The great thing is, He guides, directs, protects and empowers us to obey His commands.
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.” John 8:12 NLT
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This post was written in response to the prompt, “city,” chosen for the comunity at Five Minute Friday where writers write for 5 minutes on the prompt. (Scriptures, pictures and headings were added after the five minutes were up.)
I’m also linking to the communities at Grace & Truth, InstaEncouragements Link-Up, Tell His Story, Recharge Wednesday, Let’s Have Coffee