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Parable from the light of the world

Gospel according to Matthew 5,14-16:

(14)"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. (15) Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. (16) In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

A little light can light up a lot. A little light burning offers direction. This little light has a big meaning. Jesus presents us with a responsible task. If we proclaim Jesus’ message, we provide others with light. Be a “shining example” and be alive in the little things so that your friends can see you saying: „There is something about being a Christian; it emits something from God’s light and love“.

What are the insights from this parable?

Light a candle!

A candle which is never lit, is actually worthless. Allow yourself to be lit by Jesus, burn for Jesus and emit his joy and love.

A light in the dark!

A light in the dark has an attracting effect and gives direction. There is a reason for the saying: „Where there is light, there is life.“

Light(s) should light!

A little light in a room can light up the whole room. That gives you and others safety, direction and life. Without light we would feel lost. Lots of lights give even more safety and direction. It is important to live in the community and therefore grow in your belief to give each other help and direction. No-one has to feel like they are on the lost post.

Hidden light – the effect is lost!

No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed (Luke 8,16-18). Despite this, the illustration is used in the parable. With this, Jesus would like to say, that if you would like to follow him, you should also light up for him. Not only at specific times (e.g. Sundays at church or Fridays in the youth group), but also so that the light is always visible and it “bears fruit”.

Light needs oxygen!

Light needs oxygen. That is the primary life source of a candle light. The power sources of a Christian are well-known: Bible, obedience, prayer and community. Without these sources of power, without these “oxygen inputs” the breath would go out sometime and the candle would not be able to burn anymore. It would last for a little while, then the candle would start to burn more weakly, but eventually it would go out without any new oxygen.