Every night the man saw millions of lights across the bay. There were two tall, impressive buildings. They were dazzling in the New York City skyline. They were the Twin Towers.
The man often viewed the city from the South Tower’s upper level. His brother was there when the lights went out. That man saw brave firemen and policemen running toward the inferno as he stumbled away the day the lights went out. Next month our nation remembers the innocent people who perished. It was the day the lights went out.
Cities built on mountains provided protection for their citizens. They were also beacons to weary travelers. Jesus referenced this ancient practice when He said, “You are light for the world. It is not possible to hide a city which is sitting on a hill.” (Matthew 5:14) Jesus was not speaking about building or lighting concerns, but about people. Because this was an ancient practice, the people visualized His message. Jesus spoke of internalizing His lessons.
He continued, “No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a measuring basket. Instead, he puts it on a lamp table, and it shines for everyone in the house. So, let your light shine in front of people, so that they will see the good things you do. Then they will give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:15-16) Homes in Jesus’ time used small oil lamps to light their homes. A “measuring basket” wouldn’t allow light to escape from beneath its tight weaves. That would be a foolish waste of oil to cover or hide the light.
Once you have God’s priceless light deep inside, you wouldn’t want to hide it. That would deprive others of having Jesus’light! Family,friends,and neighbors would perish in the darkness of sin. Jesus wants you to share His precious gift of light, if indeed you do have it.
Being eternally lost in your sins, wouldn’t you want someone to tell you about Jesus’ light?
Jesus taught, “So, do for other people all the things you want them to do for you.” (Matthew 7:12) Someone taught you about Jesus. It’s only right that you teach someone you know. Please read the words of Jesus in your own Bible.
You don’t want to hide God’s light! Instead, be a guiding light for those around you to seek and find God also!