“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”

Jesus makes a bold declaration: “You are the light of the world.” Not “someday,” not “if you try hard enough”—right now, this is who you are in Him.

Think about that. Light doesn’t argue with darkness; it simply shines and pushes it back. The very presence of light changes the environment. When Jesus said this to His disciples, He was saying, “Before you shine out there in the city, you shine right here in your home.”

It’s possible to forget that identity. We get caught up in busyness, shame, or distraction and begin to think, “Who am I to shine?” But your light isn’t about you—it’s about Christ living in you. When you walk with Him, His light radiates through your words, your actions, and your presence.

It's just like I said when my students began calling me “Pastor Scott,” it wasn’t praise—it was a pointer. They weren’t exalting me; they were reminding me of my calling to serve, sacrifice, and shepherd. The title pointed to the responsibility, not the applause.

The same is true with light. When people see your good works, they shouldn’t stop at you—they should be pointed to the Father. The light doesn’t glorify the lamp; it glorifies the Source.

If…then. If Christ calls you light, then you don’t need to wait for permission to shine—you just need to live it out.

1.Do you see yourself as light, or do you often feel like darkness defines you?
2.How can you begin shining first in your own home this week?
3.What’s one place today where your presence could make a difference simply by reflecting Christ?

Speak this truth over yourself today: “In Christ, I am the light of the world.” Let it guide the way you interact with others.

Jesus, thank You that You didn’t just give me light—you made me light in You. Help me to walk in that identity today. Let my life reflect Your presence in my home, my relationships, and my community. Shine through me so others may see You. Amen.