“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 KJV

One of our favorite family activities at Christmastime is to drive around and look at all the houses that are lit up so beautifully. The house that gets the biggest applause is not far from where we live and it’s truly a joy to behold. People know this house well because the light display is coordinated to music. Even in the summertime people will give directions by saying, “Do you know where the Christmas light house is?”

The display is extravagant if not a little over done. There’s a nativity complete with Jesus, Mary and Joseph, but there’s also every other reminder of the season as well. It’s not unusual to see Santa Clause standing near baby Jesus or to find a snowman among the lambs in the stable.

It makes me smile even though it seems a little out of place. Angels and cartoon characters, snowmen and sheep all mixed together with the synchronized light show. It’s very fun and quite festive.

But this year, for whatever reason, the lights were not on. Several people drove by and let us know that the house didn’t have the display up this year. The street that usually had 1 mile of cars backed up, was dark and quiet.

People are talking about the lack of lights. It’s very noticed and very, very missed. Every year families rely on that house to bring them some joy and Christmas Spirit. So because something of hope that people have counted on is no longer present, people are affected.

When you take the time to shine your light for Christ in this dark world, people notice. They may not take the time to tell you, thank you or even acknowledge what you did to bless them, but be assured they’re paying attention. When we stop doing little kindnesses, being good witnesses, and spreading the love of Christ, it shows and people see it.

Our outward witness, if done with a genuine spirit, is powerful to others. It may seem like we are just being nice, but a hurting world sees what we do and takes note. If we let our light shine the love of Jesus by our caring, gentleness, and offer of hope to others they will see Christ in us.

When we stop doing that, people see only darkness and wonder where the light went. Just like our favorite holiday house.

What does it mean to be the light of Christ? It’s any outreach you can do to help someone who needs it. An offer to pray for or with someone, making a meal, pay for the person behind you in line, jotting a note to someone who needs some encouragement, or something as simple as a smile and a, “Blessings to you today” can be uplifting.

The world needs the hope and peace of Jesus so ask The Lord how you can be His hands and feet today. He will guide you.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the opportunity to be a hopeful witness here on earth. I want to represent You well and show others how walking with You can bring healing, wholeness and hope! Please show me how to be Your light to those around me. Please don’t let my light go out, or dim, but let it shine faithfully for You so others can see your goodness. Thank you! In Jesus’ Name, Amen!