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The True Light (Jesus) who gives light to every man was coming into the world (Jn 1:9)! God sent John the Baptist ahead to prepare the way for the coming of Jesus – the Messiah (Matt 3; Lk 1). In Jn 1:6-8, the author of John’s Gospel, made it very clear that John the Baptist was not the Light but only “a witness to the Light” to “testify concerning that Light”. What a privilege it was for the forerunner John the Baptist to be “the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’ ”
It is important for us to note, therefore, that in Matt 5:14-16, our Lord Jesus told His disciples that they too, were “the light of the world”! Jesus exhorted them to let their light so shine before men that everyone “may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”. This wonderful and great privilege is also given to every individual who follows Jesus throughout the generations – to be “the light of the world!”
Singapore just celebrated her 49th National Day on 9 August. One of our National Day songs is “Stand up for Singapore, do the best you can. Reach out for your fellow man”. It is a strong proclamation that we are proud to be Singaporeans and are therefore, more than willing to stand up and be counted (contribute) towards the well being of the people in Singapore.
To be “the light of the world” for the Lord Jesus is to proclaim the Good News of salvation to a world who needs the Lord Jesus! So that having heard, they can call on Jesus to be their Lord and be saved (Rom 10:9-13). Are we willing to stand up for the Lord and shine for Him? Is your light shining clearly and brightly for all to see? Do you need to remove any obstruction in your lives and in your relationship with the Lord Jesus for the light to shine forth? You have been promised by our Lord Jesus that He gives you the Holy Spirit to always be with you in your work for the glory of God. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Always be shining for Jesus!
