Isaiah 60:1
Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.
“Rise and shine!” It’s how some parents cheerfully wake their children up in the morning. But it’s also what God told the Israelites through Prophet Isaiah. Since God’s glory was upon Israel, He called them to arise from their complacency, shine His light, and draw the nations to Him.
As members of God’s spiritual family, we have the same mandate – to arise and shine His glory into the world. We can combat the darkness of the world by shining God’s light in every nook and cranny. God has placed each of us in particular places – institutions, organisations, companies, homes, families, neighbourhoods, and social circles. We each have a sphere of influence – people who can experience the love and character of Christ through us.
But too often, we’re working towards our own glory – recognition, promotions, wealth, prestige. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with that, our selfish pursuits can sometimes overshadow the light of God in us. We don’t produce the light – any light we emit is only a reflection of what God has placed within us. God’s light in us draws others to Christ, so they may also experience the same love that rescued us from sin and led us to abundant life.
Today, let’s be cautious that nothing in us obscures others from experiencing the light of God’s saving love. May we display the character of Christ in every interaction we have. Let’s lay down our pride, prioritise people, speak truth, embody justice, and reflect the glory of God in our little corner of the world.
