Matthew 5:14-16 says, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

 Jesus is in the middle of His famous sermon, “The Sermon on the Mount.” The verses here are so well known that you may have them memorized. As a missionary’s wife I think of this topic very regularly. I often ask myself  “Am I showing the light of Christ to those around me?”‬‬‬‬‬‬

In Peru where our church is we will lose power regularly. Our church is in the foothills of the Andes Mountains and there are over 11 million people around us. The city is very bright. When the power goes out it will be pitch black in the whole town. Our church is surrounded by hills that are just covered with these small shanty houses. If one person lights a candle at the top of the hill, it might not be much but you will be able to see that faint light even from far away. That small light makes a big difference.

We live in a world today that needs to be shown the light of Christ now more than ever. Ladies, you may not think that you can make a difference but even one small act of kindness to someone will just light up their whole day. They will start thinking, “Why is that lady always so happy?” It’s because you have the joy of the Lord inside you! When I reflect on how God loves me despite my sinful condition and that He died for me on the cross, how could I not want to share that with others? 

Here are two groups of people that we should be a light to:

1. Be a light to those who don’t know Christ.

Romans 10:14-15 says, “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!”

Every week as we travel I have the opportunity to meet new people. Those who know me know I love to make new friends! Being a missionary is a unique profession and it is an open door to give the Gospel. Every once and a while I will leave a conversation without sharing the Gospel, and when I remember I am immediately convicted. I want to be that light for Christ. Who do you know who needs the Saviour? “…and how shall they hear without a preacher?…” We must have boldness to share the love of Christ! After all he’s done for me, the least I can do is tell of his salvation to others.

1. Be a light to those who do know Christ. 

It is so sad see many ladies who used to be faithful to the Lord but because of negative influences they have been pulled away. Gossip, criticism, and bitterness toward others begins to drive a wedge between them and God. Be careful with whom you associate and decide now that you will only bring others closer to the Lord! Even among Christian friends many are ashamed to talk about their Saviour..  “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:…” Romans 1:16 a.

If everyone pulls together and shines their light for the imagine of Christ, how much brighter the light would be!