Light

April_11_graphic.png“I have given you as a light to the nations . . . “ Isaiah 42:6

If you knew everybody was watching, what would you do differently? If the world could see what you were doing right now, how would it change what you were up to?

If you’re like most of us, you make a bit more of an effort on days when you’re going out than on ones you plan to spend on the couch. If you’re like most of us, you say things to your family when you’re safe inside your house, and say them in a way, that you would never say in public.

Well, Isaiah says God’s hoping for a lot more from you than just good public manners. Isaiah says God’s given you—you!—as a light to the nations. You’re to be the beacon fire on the mountaintop. The searchlight on the rescue helicopter. The torch in the Statue of Liberty’s hand.

God doesn’t need you to be in the public eye; God needs you to be the light that lets it see. If you knew God needed you not just to not be a public embarrassment, but to enlighten the world by the way you live your life, what would you do differently today?

Prayer

God, this little light of mine doesn’t really seem bright enough for the job you have in mind. But it’s your call, so I’ll do my best to not put it out.

ddcaldwell_2014.pngAbout the Author
Quinn G. Caldwell is the Pastor of Plymouth Congregational Church, Syracuse, New York.  His most recent book is a series of daily reflections for Advent and Christmas called All I Really Want: Readings for a Modern Christmas. Learn more about it and find him on Facebook at Quinn G. Caldwell.