Put in The Effort

“You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:14‭-‬16 HCSB

Having just been in Nepal where there are no street lights or adequate paving and there is a dangerous terrain, a light up ahead is very welcome.

This is like life nowadays. Where is truth? Where is the right and safe path? Jesus told us He was the Light but that we Christians are the light of the world. In the Old Testament God promises to be a light before our feet. However, for us who have found Christ, we now are those lights.

Back to Nepal. The light that is welcome is not a street light, just a light given off by a feeble lamp or a fire. We don'tmlm have to be as capable as a minister or a church, all we have to do is let our light shine, no matter how small.

How do we do that? By being involved, doing community. What does that look like? Taking time to know our neighbors, go visit, put on a party. I have done just this. I door-knocked and invited the neighbors to come for Christmas and bring food to share. It would not happen without me going and they all would become more isolated. They are coming!

Make Christmas special this year and get over your reticence. That is all it is. Put in the effort. Amen!