Jesus spoke to the Pharisees again. “I am the light of the world,” he said. “Whoever follows me will have the light of life and will never walk in darkness.”—John 8:12 GNT
Have you ever lived in a country with constant power cuts? Well, I have. Growing up in such a country meant that at night you were somewhat limited in what you could do. Moving around the house or compound meant you had to have some form of light with you, a torch or lantern. Because the power cuts were so consistent, you had to always be prepared: keep the torch nearby, keep the lantern clean and filled with oil, and keep matches or a lighter handy.
Nowadays, it’s slightly different, even though they still have power cuts; most people use generators to generate electricity, but it’s not the same. Most generators can only power a limited number of household appliances and can only run for a limited time. Also, with many in the community owning one, it causes a lot more issues like noise and air pollution; that is a story for another day!
In developed countries, power cuts are strange and a rarity. Because electricity is constant and is part of the fabric of life, when people experience one, even if it’s only for a few hours, it becomes a newsworthy item.
In every country, whether in Africa, Asia, America, or Europe, light and electricity are essential, and we are constantly finding more ways to use them. Likewise, in a believer’s life, there is a light we follow and that light also lives in us. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)
The light Jesus is talking about can only manifest in our lives if we truly surrender to Him and follow Him wholeheartedly. People will notice the difference because an authentic Christian life is countercultural. This life is maintained by the Holy Spirit’s leading, allowing its fruit to permeate our lives and staying in the Word of God. The Psalmist said, “Your word is a lamp to guide me and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 (GNT)
A life without the light of Christ is like a life that is wandering around in darkness, confused, regardless of whether the person is successful, educated, rich or poor.
So, are you following and living out the light of Christ? Or are you still wandering around in the darkness of life? If you are, the light of Christ is much closer to you than you think. Just call out to Jesus, and He will shine His light on you.
Stay blessed,
LaraLex
Hills and Valleys 