KEEPING DARKNESS AT BAY

KEEPING DARKNESS AT BAY

READ:

Matthew 5:11-16

Let your light so shine before men,

that they may see your good works

and glorify your Father. –Matthew 5:16

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s book The Hobbit, the wizard Gandalf explains why he has selected a small hobbit like Bilbo to accompany the dwarves to fight the enemy.  He says, “Saruman believes it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I have found.  I found it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay.  Small acts of kindness and love.”

That’s what Jesus teaches us as well.  Warning us that we would live in dark times, He reminded us that because of Him we are “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) and that our good deeds would be the power against the darkness for the glory of God (v.16).  And Peter, writing to believers in Christ who were facing severe persecution, told them to live so that those accusing them would “by [their] good works which they observe, glorify god” (1 Peter 2:12).

There is one force that the darkness cannot conquer-the force of loving acts of kindness done in Jesus’ name.  It is God’s people who turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, and forgive and even love their enemies who oppose them who have the power to turn the tide against evil.  So look for the privileged opportunity to perform acts of kindness today to bring the light of Christ to others. –Joe Stowell

Lord, teach me the folly of trying to repay evil for

evil.  May I be so grateful to You for the loving acts

of kindness that You have shown me that I gladly

look to share good deeds with others as well!

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Light up your world with an act of kindness.

INSIGHT

Taken from the Sermon on the Mount, today’s passage presents some of the behavioral expectations of the kingdom of God and stresses authenticity.  Using the recognizable images of salt and light, Jesus tells His listeners that they cannot follow Him in secret.  Salt must be salty and light must illuminate.  However, we must be careful not to assume that it is goodness for goodness’ sake that is expected of God’s people.  Good deeds are what bring God glory and reflect His character to the world (v.16).

Have a blessed day.

God Our Creator’s Love Always.

Unity & Peace