PHILIPPIANS 2:12-18
Following the Underground Railroad, a term for the secret passageways from the South to the North and the abolitionists who assisted them along the way, escaped slaves were able to find freedom prior to the American Civil War (1861–1865). Slaves would travel long distances at night while staying on course by tracing the light of the “Drinking Gourd.” The Big Dipper, a constellation that points to the North Star, was given this secret name. Some people think that the fugitives used the lyrics of the song “Follow the Drinking Gourd” as ciphers for their travels, preventing them from getting lost.
The “drinking gourd” and the abolitionists both functioned as beacons, pointing the slaves in the direction of freedom. According to the apostle Paul, Christians should serve as examples for people looking for God’s truth, salvation, and spiritual emancipation by shining as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15).
The light of Jesus Christ is badly needed in our dark world. Our mission is to reveal God’s truth so that people might find the One who redeems and provides the way to freedom and eternal life. We direct people to Jesus because He is the One who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
🙏Lord help us light up our world by reflecting your light
