Day 276 - Shining Like Jesus: The Light of the World (Mark 3, Luke 6, Matthew 5, Matthew 6) Year 2
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TODAY'S READING:

• Mark 3:7-19, Luke 6:12-16, Matthew 5:1-12, Luke 6:17-26, Matthew 5:13-48, Luke 6:27-36, Matthew 6:1-4

WORD OF THE DAY:

-  Light

As we dive into today’s readings, we find Jesus teaching His disciples, calling them, and showing them how to live as His followers.

Jesus, seeing the growing crowds following Him, goes up on a mountainside and calls His twelve apostles—those who would be closest to Him, learning from Him and eventually continuing His mission after His time on earth. These men weren’t from prestigious backgrounds. Many of them were fishermen, including Simon Peter, James, and John. But Jesus chose them for a purpose: to spread the light of the Gospel.

Just as these apostles were called from their daily lives to follow Jesus, we, too, are called to be His disciples, spreading His light and love wherever we go.

As the crowds gathered, Jesus began to teach what we know as the Beatitudes. These are the characteristics of those who follow Christ—those who belong to the Kingdom of God.

What a contrast to the world around us. Jesus reminds us that those who are persecuted for His name will receive a great reward. While society often celebrates wealth and power, Jesus celebrates the meek, the mourners, and those who hunger for righteousness. These qualities are what make us the “light” that shines in the darkness.

After teaching the Beatitudes, Jesus gives His followers an important reminder.

This isn’t just a simple analogy. This is a command. We, as His followers, are to reflect His light into a world that desperately needs hope, truth, and grace. Jesus challenges us to shine brightly in every aspect of our lives so that others can see our good deeds and glorify God.

In perhaps one of the most difficult teachings, Jesus tells us to love our enemies. He says we should bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who mistreat us. It’s easy to love those who love us, but Jesus calls us to something greater—to show mercy and kindness even to those who wrong us. This is how our light shines even brighter.

Jesus’ teaching on being the light of the world couldn’t come at a more crucial time. We live in a world full of darkness—fear, hate, pain, and suffering. Yet, Jesus reminds us that we are called to be different. We are called to shine with His light, to be the beacon that points others toward God.

But how do we do this? By living out the teachings of Jesus. By loving our enemies, showing mercy, and humbly seeking righteousness. We don’t need to do grand things to be the light. Simple acts of kindness, forgiveness, and love can reflect Jesus’ light to those around us.

Light is powerful. It overcomes darkness, it reveals the truth, and it provides guidance. Jesus tells us that we are to be this light in the world. Just as light allows us to see clearly, our lives should allow others to see God more clearly.

When was the last time you felt like you were shining brightly for Jesus? Have you allowed His light to fill your heart, so that it naturally spills over into your actions and words? If not, take time to reconnect with Him today. Ask Him to fill you with His love and grace, so that your light can shine even in the darkest places.

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