LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE

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We sometimes thrive on the prospect of the odd one-the one in a million chance that something might not follow the expected norm. Yet, every now and then we arrive at a place where no such variations seem applicable.Today’s text is one of such

'No one lights a lamp and then covers it with a container to hide it' (Luke 8:16)

Across every version of scripture I read, the opening remained the same: ‘NO ONE’. Unlike in modern times where a light comes on with flick of a button, a wave or a clap, it was not so with an old school lamp. You had to obtain a complete set of the lamp, its fuel, and a lighter. It made little sense then to go through all this hustle just for the end product to be hidden under a basket.

There are many moments when hiding away is great to build character and mastery, but there arrives moments when you will serve the world best when you are on a lamp stand burning bright. Times when you have to be a beacon that draws others near to hear from, and about the light they see.

Matthew’s Gospel puts the imperative as follows: Don’t place your lit lamps under a basket, rather “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (5:16).”

#sly