I grew up in a culture that encouraged shining our light so others would see the goodness of God’s love. But that same culture got nervous when your light attracted a certain type of people or when it challenged the status quo. Being a light in a dark world can be scary because it shines on all the things we wish to keep covered up. It reveals that not all is perfect, that we all may need some grace, some kindness, and some compassion, and perhaps in need of a savior. And when you shine your light, the same people who tell you shine brightly, may tell you are shining too bright or shining in the wrong direction because your light reveals the hidden struggles in a broken world.

Jesus told his followers they were to be the world’s light. They were to shine brightly and clearly so when their conduct is seen by others, they trace the light to its source: Jesus.

I believe Jesus came to establish principles on this earth that shine the light of God’s love. It’s a light that sets prisoners free. It’s a light that reaches out and brings people into its warmth, not kick them out. It’s a light that gives good news to the poor. It’s light that comforts the mourning. It’s light that gives food to the hungry. It’s light that confronts the evil of greed. It’s light that confronts status quo. It’s light that redeems. It’s light that transforms. It’s light that is inextinguishable.