What’s one of your favorite things to do in the Christmas season? At our house we love checking out Christmas light displays at homes throughout the city. There was a subdivision in Jacksonville where we used to live that was famous for lights in the trees all over the neighborhood along with most of the houses and yards. Some people like graceful artistry and tasteful presentation. Me? I’m partial to the brightest, loudest, and most visually overwhelming. If you can see it from space, I’m good with it!
I’ve been thinking about Christmas lights in the context of our theme for this school year “See the Light…Be the Light” based on John 8:12. What if I told you that YOU were just like one of those garishly decorated homes? Matthew 5:14 tell us that “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” That verse could have said Jesus or God is the light of the world, but it doesn’t – it says you are. You are the light of Christ in every life that you touch through your kindness, generosity, thoughtfulness, and care. You can bring hope in the face of hopelessness and joy where there is only despair. Is that so you can get the credit for having the best “light display”? No! A few verses later in Matthew we’re taught that your light is to “… give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” This Christmas may you shine the light of Jesus in your family, your neighborhood, and to those most in need.