August 25th

Read: 1 Th. 5:1-8; Matt. 5:14-16; Luke 8:16

There are some deep truths to be plumbed from Luke 8:16. Jesus speaks of a man who has lighted a lamp. Jesus, the Light of the World, the Source of all light, lights this lamp. The
lamp represents a believer. That lamp must be available for His use before He can kindle its light. The light He gives is His Word. (Psalm 119:105) Its purpose is to dispel or to illuminate darkness. During World War II blackouts were common along the coasts of our nation. Even a match struck or a flashlight turned on could draw an enemy aircraft towards a city or defense installation. If such a small amount of light can dispel darkness, the sweet pure light of the gospel of Jesus Christ is able to turn the darkness into light. (John 1:15)

We are the lamps. As portable lamps we can be carried from place to place and positioned on the lampstand by the One who has us at His disposal. The lampstand elevates the lamp and holds it steady, allowing the light to illuminate all areas of the room, revealing what is present there. If we are willing to let Jesus illuminate us and put us on that lampstand, the radiance will be seen which will attract others, and He will be able to light the lamps of their lives too. Will we heed Christ’s challenge and show real interest in the truth of His Word?

MISSION
If I’m to be a Child of Light,
Then I must brighten up the night
And help someone who lives in fear
To see that God is always near.

A Child of Light shines brighter far
Than sunlight’s beam or heavenly star,
When on that fearful heart’s dark place
He smiles a ray that speaks of grace.

That heart, so deep in pain and grief,
Is groping blindly for relief.
Then when God’s truth breaks into sight,
Joy fills anew that Child of Light.

Now there are two who bravely stand
As beacons blazing on the strand,
Children of Light whose inner glow
Lights up the path where’er they go.

Prayer: Dear Lord, challenge me anew to shine for You.