“No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.  For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.  Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.” (Luke 8:16-18)

     Jesus compares his followers to those who display a light on a lampstand.  The lampstand serves a purpose—to enable people to see in darkness.  Following Jesus serves a purpose because it enables people to see what is within our hearts and minds. 

     It took me a long time to realize this truth.  If people do not know who I am, they are not likely to know the truth of the gospel.  If people see and hear through my words and actions what the love of Christ is all about, then I have done my job in sharing this good news.  This message needs to be passed on to the present and future generations.  We must “love our neighbor” enough to let them know this very important good news!

Prayer: Dear Lord, please work through me to carry on the message of how much you love us and want all of us to be with you.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.