MATTHEW 5:14-16
A lantern is a portable source of lighting, usually having a protective enclosure for the light source. Personally, I prefer lanterns to candles because the light is protected and cannot easily go off as a result of the wind.
Light is one of the most prevalent themes throughout the entire bible, a thread that starts man’s journey on the physical earth and closes out the story in Revelation.
In the first few verses of Genesis, the very first thing God created was light. (Genesis 1:2-4)
Again, in the last few verses of the bible, John explains that after God has set up His kingdom and recreated the heaven and earth – “they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light.” (Revelation 22:5). This means that the physical celestial lights that God created for man – sun, moon, and stars will no longer be necessary as God’s glory will be all that is needed to see.
During His ministry, Jesus told His disciples (and us, by extension), “Ye are the light of the world…” (Matthew 5:14) And that is true.
As lights we should dispel the darkness wherever we go.
Remember the story of the ten virgins? They had oil lamps, but some had used up their oil and did not have any. They had failed to keep their lights burning and when they needed it, they were desperately searching for some light. But, it was too late.
Others were wise and kept their lights shining brightly.
As Jesus’ followers, we must continue to read the Bible, fellowship with believers in church to grow, pray for direction, and live exemplary lives for others to see.
Photo: Vladimir Fedotov
