Lent: day 6: Jesus says YES to shining bright

Matthew 5:14-16. “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. “ JESUS

The day was starting dark. It wasn’t just the fact that I always rise before the sun and I’ve usually had my first cup of coffee long before the sun peaks it’s head over the horizon. 

The darkness came through a text- met me right where I am now- sitting on my couch, journal in hand, coffee cup on one side, little dog on the other. 

“Hi Beth, please be in prayer for us and our neighbors. A couple days ago a young man (17) committed suicide across the street from us. My husband and I were putting the kids in the car when the mother, father and best friend of the boy found him in the garage. It was horrific. I told My older daughter  to stay with the boys and ran over with My husband. He called the police and I held the friend who collapsed in the snow. The screams and wails will probably be something I remember for the rest of my life.”

This was just last week. 

My heart was heavy for my friend, her young children that witnessed this event and the family that will try to make sense of a senseless act… most likely for the rest of their lives. 

I wish this was the first time I’ve heard this story … but it’s not. Countless times in my life have I been face to face with the darkness of depression and the grip it can take on a persons life. It knows no boundaries, male , female, young and old. Oh how desperately people need a rescue from the lies that lead them to believe life would be better without them. 

Friends- this, this right here is why Jesus says YES- to shining bright. It’s not about flash or Charisma ( although for some it might) .  It’s about carrying the light placed in you when you professed faith in Jesus. The light powered alone by the Holy Spirit.  It means taking it to places like the grocery store, the sports fields, the family gatherings, the board rooms and sometimes …..

the garage of a neighbor at a most inconvenient time.   

This light – we are desperate for it.  The people right around you….right. Around. Me. 

As you head into your world today….

Shine BRIGHT.  

Love without limits. Listen to really hear.  Look with eyes that desire to see deep into souls.  Encourage without judgement. Treat everyone you meet as if they have just received a really tough phone call.  Those needing your light… they’re closer then you know. 

Loving you where you are and pointing you forward to where He is.

just Beth:)