As we consider spheres of greatest usefulness would we agree such would be spheres of greatest need? Considering those working for the fire department, though there are things to be done around the station — including keeping all equipment in working order and keeping up on training — what is their greatest usefulness? It is going out into their community to where the emergencies and fires are. Considering the work of medics, though stocking their supplies and keeping up on training is important, what is their greatest usefulness? It is going out into their community to where the injuries or health crises have occurred. As we think about a room illuminated by stage lighting, is that where the light of a candle is most needed? A candle’s light might not even be noticed in such a setting, but its presence is not missed when lit in a dark room.
As John introduced the Messiah in his gospel, we read. . .
“(1) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (2) He was in the beginning with God. (3) All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. (4) In him was life, and the life was the light of men. (5) The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:1-5 ESV)
John the baptizer bore witness to the “true light” that was coming into the world. (John 1:6-9) In Jesus is found the light of hope, the light of love, light that exposes (note John 3:20) by the light of truth accompanied by grace (note John 1:14), and the light of salvation, so that those in Him would not remain in the darkness (John 12:46) but would have the light of life (John 8:12). To meet humanity’s greatest need, our Lord left Heaven and came to earth. He brought His glory into this realm to pierce the darkness. Though we can praise Him through Whom all creation came into being (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2), His greatest usefulness was taking on flesh to give His life to redeem us from our sins and provide for us everlasting life! (Romans 8:3-4; Colossians 1:22; Hebrews 2:14-15) He came to earth to “seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10) and to provide life in its truest sense (John 10:10).
Now, as we consider our own life in connection with Jesus, we are to remember we have been called to live as lights in this dark world. (Matthew 5:14-16; Philippians 2:15) Our assembling together is important as we commemorate our Lord through participating in the Lord’s Supper each first day of the week and in worshipping together. Our gathering together is also important for encouraging, equipping, and preparing for our work done through day-to-day living in this world. (i.e. Hebrews 10:24) Though we are not of the world, we must be out in it to do the work we have been called to do; to be lights. In the darkness of the world the light of Christ reflected in our life will simply do what light does; illuminate and expose. May we therefore go out and light our world to the glory of God!
Have a great day BEING A LUMINARY ON LIFE’S WAY!
Carl
