By Joseph Perry

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16, ESV)

There’s one thing for sure, and that is we are God’s representatives wherever we are in life. When we allow God’s word to dwell and work in our lives, we are letting our lights shine. When we are good to people and show them kindness, even when they don’t want it or even deserve it, we are shining our lights. When we smile and keep a good attitude, even when things don’t go our way, we are setting an example so that people will glorify God in heaven.

Jesus tells us to let our lights shine, so they will see our good works.

If the truth be told, people aren’t impressed by how much education we have obtained, nor are they are drawn to God by our good works. It’s what we do for people, how we touch their lives, that makes the difference. It doesn’t take much to light up someone’s heart. The old song still holds true: “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine, everywhere I go, all in my neighborhood, I’m going to let it shine.” Let’s not just sing it — let’s do it.

We need to ask the God who is in Heaven to help us be the people whose lights shine brighter each day in a world that is in dire need of seeing that the Lord is still in our midst.

The Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Perry is pastor of St. Mark AME Zion Church. He can be reached at josephp134@gmail.com.