What Jesus Did! 'Light!' — Matthew 5:14-16

Sunday, February 16, 2025

[Jesus continued:] "You are the light of the world — like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father."
— Matthew 5:14-16 NLT

Key Thought

One of the great things about camping out in the country is that you can get away from the city lights and really see the stars. When you are away from the city, a full moon is bright enough to find your way around in the night. The sky is full of light from the stars. In a world of darkness, we are those who have come from darkness into light. We are to reflect the light we have found in Jesus. Notice that Jesus' point: We are not to limit our lights to our own little circle of influence. We are to take every possible opportunity to shine them so that places of darkness are either brought to the light or exposed for what they are.

Today's Prayer

Help me, O God, to be a light to those near and far. Lead me into ways of service that will bless people in the name of Jesus. I am concerned, Lord God, about several folks that I know personally and that need to become Christians. (Mention them by name.) Help me to be your light of joy and salvation that will help them come to know you as their Heavenly Father. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Philippians 2:14-16
  • Colossians 1:10-13
  • John 8:12

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 5:14-16 NLT — "You are the light of the world — like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden."

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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