Brightly Shining

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. (Matthew 5:14-16)

The Christmas season is in full swing.  It’s in this season, we have a tremendous opportunity to shine God’s light.  During a time where Christmas has become just another “Happy Holiday”.  We need to shine the light of Jesus.  We need to embrace the full meaning of Christmas.  Yes, gifts are great, the decorations are fun, the songs are beautiful, the food is amazing, and the family get togethers are the best.  But may we not forget the reason we celebrate Christmas.  May it not get lost in the shuffle of shopping, wrapping, and eating.  May we stop and embrace the message of this season, so someone new can experience Christ.

My prayer is that as I shop, God’s light will shine through me.  I pray I will shop with joy in my Savior, I pray I will speak words of love to those around me, and more than anything I pray that I will be a testimony of my Savior this season.  I want to be that city shining on a hill, choosing to celebrate more than just another holiday.  I choose to celebrate the birth of my Savior and all that it entails for my life.  History changed in a moment, the ransom for my sins were paid through the baby who was born in a manger, and my life has been forever changed.

This Christmas, I will celebrate the gift of God’s Son.  Will you celebrate with me?  Will people experience Jesus through you during this season?  How will you be different from all the other shoppers you come in contact with?

Dear Father God, I never want to forget what Christmas is all about.  I still can’t believe all that You have done, so that I can spend an eternity with you in Heaven.  May I be a light in this world, this season, for those who have yet to experience salvation through Your Son Jesus Christ. 

Shining Brightly for Jesus,