A lighthouse is defined as a structure (such as a tower) with a powerful light that gives a continuous or intermittent signal to navigators. So by definition, the tower has a bright light that shines to help lead. Why is this important to have? There would be chaos if we didn’t have them. I imagine there would be a risk of ships colliding against unknown dangers in the pitch-black dark. The light also serves as a safety measure by guiding the boats to safety.
What happens when you are in a dark room? You cannot see anything. You cannot move freely, and you are confined to where you are out of fear of walking into something that can hurt you. You are unaware of your surroundings; therefore, you are a prime target to become someone or something’s prey. Really if you think about it, there is a sense of uneasiness that you feel because your ability to see has been compromised. Have you ever been in the dark and you hear an unfamiliar sound that brings fear? What is the first thing you do? You turn on the light. What happens when the light is turned on? The dark void that seemed so scary now reveals everything that was surrounding you. You can see things for what they are. There is a sense of calmness that comes over you. Your feeling of helplessness is gone, and you are now empowered because you have control over what you can now see.
Jesus is the light of the world. John 8:12 says, “Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness but will have the Light of life.” We, as followers of Christ, are also called to be lights. Matthew 5:13-15 says, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lamp-stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” In our everyday lives as Christians, we have the charge to shine bright and show others the way to Christ. Here is something to ponder on. What are you reflecting in your everyday lifestyle? Is your light growing dim? Do you need to be recharged?
Being a light for Christ is a task that must be taken seriously. The lighthouse stands tall in the darkness, it leads ships to safety or steers them away from danger. We, too, are to stand tall amongst the circumstances we see going on in the world. We are to proclaim the love of Christ and tell people the truth so they can avoid dangers they may not see. There are so many ways to allow your light to shine. What about the co-worker that you notice is having a bad day? How hard is it to give a word of encouragement? A smile and a good morning can do wonders for people. Even when you are the odd one out, doing the right thing is an example of being a light. In being a light, there will be times that you will have to deal with conflict. This is a perfect time to let your light shine and display the characteristics of Christ. Does this mean that you will be soft and allow yourself to be walked over? Absolutely not. It means that you will be able to demonstrate discipline while getting your point across.
As I matured in Christ, I learned that my emotions could not lead me, but I had to be led by Christ. Does that mean that I just let things slide, no? Timing plays a part in how things are dealt with. For me, I have learned how to choose my battles. I have realized that somethings are not worth my time nor energy. But what about those situations that have to be addressed? Sometimes I deal with it right then, but there are some things that I like to ponder on and then revisit. There is nothing wrong with being truthful and honest about something that may have hurt or offended you. It’s how you do it that makes the difference.
God uses people that are willing to be used to get things done here on earth. Think about it. Why do we go to church? Why do we study the Word of God? Do you really think all our life experiences that we went through was for nothing? Think about it this way. You get to give. You get filled up with the Word of God, but it’s not just for you. You have to share it. You experience a hardship in your life, and God brings you through. Don’t keep it to yourself; share the good news of God’s delivering power with others so they can be encouraged. These are examples of what being a light looks like. In action and in deed, you light the path that leads to Father God.
Motivating Moments 