Shining Your Christian Light Brightly: The Call to Openly Share God’s Gifts and Works

In the biblical teachings, specifically within the context of Matthew 5 and 6, Christians are called upon to live out their faith in a way that honors God and blesses the world. Jesus clearly instructs His followers to be the light of the world, setting an example to those around them and shining the light of God's love and grace.

Living the Will of God

The scripture emphasizes that we are to live our lives in accordance with God's will, particularly through the teachings and actions of Jesus Christ. It is by living these teachings that we can truly glorify God the Father in heaven, who gives life and light to all people. This means that when we help others, we should not seek credit but rather give all the glory to God for His grace and provision.

Matthew 6: The Importance of Being Open

It's intriguing how in the very next chapter, Matthew 6, Jesus instructs us not to perform good deeds in a manner to be seen by others. This does not mean we should hide our actions; rather, it means that the true joy and purpose of our deeds is to bring glory to God.

Hidden Light vs. Shining Light

The underlying message here is that the light of our faith should shine brightly, much like a city on a hill, where it cannot be hid. As Jesus taught: “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but put it on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before people, so that they may see your good works and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

The idea of being open about one's faith reflects the understanding that Christian faith is not just a personal journey but a communal responsibility to share the message of light and love with the world. This aligns with the principle laid out by Jesus, not just for a select few, but for all of His followers.

The Secret Revealed Must Be Told

Jehovah has not revealed His sacred secret to be kept hidden among Christians. Instead, it is meant to be shared openly, aligning with the teachings of Jesus. His followers are called to be like a city on a hill, a light on the lampstand, shining before all people.

This open sharing of the Christian faith reflects Jesus’ intention that Christians should not hide, but rather be living testaments to the love and grace of God. The government, therefore, should have nothing to fear from the activities of true Christians, as they are allies in the cause of peace and good order.

A Call to Action

Failing to let our light shine today would be displeasing to both Christ and the Revealer of secrets. It would not leave us happy, nor would it allow us to fulfill the purpose for which we were created. Just as Jesus instructed, we must allow our light to shine brightly, inviting others to see the goodness of God in our lives and thereby giving glory to our Father in Heaven.

Christianity is a calling, not just a belief. It is a way of life that we are to live authentically before the world. May we each be a beacon of hope and light in our communities, sharing the divine secret of God’s love openly.