you are the light of the world

august 21` scripture: Matthew 5:14-16

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Journaling Prompts: 

  1. Recall a time when you found yourself in a darkened place, without ready access to light (a power-failure at night, a dark tent in the woods, in a cavern?). Describe the experience. What did the experience of darkness bring to you - fear, frustration…? What did it take away from you - confidence, direction?

  2. Jesus tells us that we (His followers) ARE light in a world that is dark. As a light-bearer, what would you hope to bring to your world? What could your presence help to alleviate?

  3. Imagine an image of a lone hill on a flat plain. Can you sense the exposure? Have you ever felt “exposed” (uncovered, revealed, on display) as a believer in Christ in your world? Think about that experience and write about it.

  4. Consider that darkness is merely the absence of light - it has no reality of its own. Ask God to show you the places and circumstances in your life where darkness seems to be fixed; then ask the Spirit to show you how to show up as a light-bearer in those places.