Be The Light

“You are the light of the world–like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.” — Matthew 5:14, NLT)

If you had not noticed or paid close attention, today’s date is 2 – 22 – 22.

To some, that might not mean very much. But, to others, repetition in numbers awakens one’s curiosity causing you to ask such questions as: “What is the significance? Or what is the meaning behind this matter?”

In scripture, the number twenty-two is symbolic of light. The Greek word is phōs, pronounced fōce, which means to shine or make manifest, especially by rays.[1]

In Matthew 5:14, Matthew, the writer, tells us that Believers, those who believe in the Lord, Jesus Christ, are the light of the world — a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden.

To support his proposal, he says, “No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.” (Matthew 5:15, NLT)

Matthew goes on to say, “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (v. 16, NLT)

Now, this can be somewhat overwhelming to someone who falls in the 16 – 50 percentiles of those who consider themselves introverts.[2]

Are you telling me I have to be seen or be out front to be an effective witness for Christ?

While on the other hand, the remaining 50 – 74 percent of the population are extroverts[3] — “social butterflies” —  and feel very comfortable being in the “spotlight.”

But I ask you today. Where do you fall on the spectrum?

Where do you feel most comfortable in living a lifestyle of sharing the Gospel of the Kingdom?

One way to ease one’s comfort level would be to approach the assignment in this way.

What if we talked about Jesus as if He was our BFF (Best Friend Forever). It’s easy to share how we feel about our best friend. They’re the one who comes to our rescue when we need help. They’re the one who always has a shoulder to lend when we need one to cry on. They are the only person who can tell us about ourselves, and we not cop an attitude. And, if we do get offended, we quickly forget and forgive. Why? Because it’s our best friend.

Now think of Jesus in the same manner. Have you shared this type of fellowship with Him?

If so, then your cup is half full. All you need to do is step out there and be a witness to fill your cup to overflowing.

On the other hand, spend time in His presence if your relationship isn’t entirely where you want it to be.

Be intentional about making time for Him in your daily routine. For example, dedicate those few minutes you spend drinking a cup of coffee and having a one-on-one conversation.

And before you know it, His goodness and good deeds will be rolling off the tip of your tongue, and you’ll be operating and flowing like the extroverts in the world.

“… let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (Matthew 5:16, NLT)

Join Jesus and me next week for Coffee on The Couch.

[1] “G5457 – phōs – Strong’s Greek Lexicon (NKJV).” Blue Letter Bible. Accessed February 21, 2022. https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g5457/nkjv/tr/0-1/

[2]https://www.jibc.ca/sites/default/files/community_social_justice/pdf/cl/Introverts_and_Extroverts_(Psychology_Today).pdf. Accessed February 21, 2022.

[3] “Ibid”