To Shine

Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:14-16 The Message


I love decorating for events. One of my favorite things I've discovered is water crystal beads now known as Orbeez. They make for the most creative centerpieces. They come in all colors but using the clear provides multiple options to create centerpieces that border on magical. Using a vase or glass, you can pour in the clear Orbeez then add pearls or tiny items of any kind, then more Orbeez, and when the glass is full, add water. The clear Orbeez "disappear" and all you see are the pearls or items that you placed that appear to be hanging in mid-air within the glass. If you put a waterproof tea light in the bottom before you start adding things, the light reflects beautifully throughout. And if the light is placed at the top facing downward, it adds a totally different effect of reflection.

Okay, I know this is not a crafting blog. What does this have to do with our Promise for Today?

This became an illustrated sermon for me of our text while recently creating centerpieces. See, you have to build a few prototypes before settling on the template for the event. They can be attractive without a light, but the light adds a whole new dimension, bringing out the best aspects and also revealing what might need to be changed. If we're here to be the light, bringing out the God-colors in the world, what or Who are we reflecting? Do we shine reflecting Jesus, the Light of the World? Do we spend time in His presence so that we are able to catch the light He shines upon those things in us that might need to be changed?

Prayer:

Father, 

          According to Your Word, help us to let our light so shine before mankind that they may see our good works and glorify You. Help us to reflect the best of Your love and light to those You've placed within our sphere of influence. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen