Light of the World

Every morning, I perform the exact same ritual: I move from room to room, opening every blind and curtain. It’s a simple act, but it’s a declaration: "I need the light." We all instinctively know the value of the sun for our physical bodies, but our need for light goes much deeper than the shorter winter months or a bright morning. We have a deep spiritual need for light because we live in a world under the influence of the kingdom of darkness. Whether it’s the global darkness of war and corruption or the personal darkness of a cancer diagnosis, a season of depression, or the pain of betrayal, we all eventually find ourselves crying out for something to break through the shadows.

The good news is that the Light has come and has a name: Jesus. When He said, "I am the light of the world," He wasn’t just offering a nice sentiment; He was providing the antidote to the darkness of sin, fear, and lies. In my own life, I’ve found that the light of Jesus looks like the power to forgive when I’ve been hurt, the comfort to endure grief, and the truth that dispels the lies of anxiety. This light is a kingdom that has already defeated the darkness, yet we still see the struggle between the two every day. It is the "already and not yet"—a victory that is won through Christ's resurrection, but a kingdom that continues to grow through us here on earth.

This is where you and I come in. Jesus calls us the light of the world, but we often hide our glow under a "bowl" of fear, insecurity, or tolerated sin. We have to be diligent in turning toward the Light daily, choosing to take our thoughts captive and walk out of the shadows of shame or worry. Just as I have to choose to open my blinds every morning, we must choose to let His light reflect through our goodness, righteousness, and truth. When we do, we aren't just improving our own lives—we are literally pushing back the borders of darkness and expanding God’s kingdom.

The world is dark, and many are crying out, "I need the light." Don’t underestimate the power of your small glow or wait until you feel "perfect" to make a difference. Even a tiny light in a dark bedroom acts like a spotlight; your light is necessary and powerful. Today, I challenge you to stop hiding. Look at where you’ve been letting fear or lies dim your shine and decide to step into the light of truth. Your life is meant to be a beacon, and it is exactly what this dark world needs to see.

Listen to the full message here:

Recorded at the 2025 Big Wood Ladies Christmas Brunch

---

Light a candle and take time to reflect on Jesus, the Light of the World, and your call to shine.

1. The Personal Need for Light

• Identify Your Darkness: What struggle, fear, or difficult situation feels like "darkness" right now?

• The Light You Need: Based on that darkness, finish this statement: "I need the Light of Jesus to give me more..." (e.g., forgiveness, hope, truth, peace, purity).

2. Hiding the Light: Acknowledging the Problem

• Confronting the "Bowl": Where are you putting your light "under a bowl"? (Think about both tolerating darkness—small sins, bad attitudes—and hiding the light you have—out of fear or insecurity.)

• The Root Cause: What is the underlying lie, fear, or desire that causes you to hide your light?

3. Taking Action: Illumination

• One Concrete Step: What is one practical step you will take this week to actively "let your light shine"?

  • (Choose either: A step to deal with an identified darkness, OR a step to shine light on others.)