[246 words]
One of my favorite things about this time of the year is experiencing the beauty of Christmas lights. Ordinarily only dimly lit by dull street lamps, towns are now awash in brilliant displays of holiday cheer. So much more joyful than the rest of the year!
Eventually, however, those lights will be taken down, packed up, and put away again until next December. One of my least favorite times of the year is when those lights—and the accompanying joyful attitudes—are hidden for 11 months. Too bad! Wouldn’t it be great if they stuck around all year long!
Even more sadly, some Christians only let their lights shine during special occasions. Currently there is a surging wave of good will toward our fellowman as we all seek to do something good for those in need. But what if we didn’t just drag our Christian lights out only for holidays?
Jesus told His disciples that they were the light of the world (Matt. 5:14). Accordingly, He told them, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).
Certainly we should do all the good we can during the holiday season, but let’s refrain from packing up our Christian lights and putting them away for the rest of the year. The world needs the light of the church and God’s word shining in the darkness! Will you be a light for Christ 365 days in the coming year?
Matt Clifton
Judsonia church of Christ
Judsonia, AR