This little light of mine
Don’t you hate it when one little comment gets the wheels in your mind spinning? And, isn’t it worse when those spinning wheels make you realize that something is wrong with your life?
(Okay, actually I like it, and I appreciate it, and I thank God when it happens. But, while I like it, I don’t really like it, if you know what I mean.)
So, in response to my post “Missing Hymns,” Sondra mentioned the song “This Little Light of Mine.” Innocent song, right? Except that I started thinking about what Scripture says about being light and shining.
John wrote the following about Jesus:
In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (John 1:4-5 ESV)
According to Matthew, Jesus said:
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16 ESV)
Paul wrote:
Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. (Philippians 2:14-16 ESV)
In each case, the light of Jesus is supposed to shine through those of us who are his children. But, notice in particular, that Jesus’ light is supposed to shine through us IN THE DARKNESS.
I have to admit that I sometimes only allow Jesus’ light to shine through me when I am around others who are reflecting Jesus’ light.
This little light of mine… I’m gonna let it shine…
Let it be so, Lord. Let your light shine through me in the darkness of this world.
Where are you allowing Jesus to shine his light?