You are the light of the world… Let your good deeds shine out for all to see. –Matthew 5:14a & 16a (NLT)

Click here to read today’s Scripture: Matthew 5:14-16

My commute to Belize City started normally. Trees and tall grass, bridges and roundabouts, village houses lining the highway. Same old, same old. Then, as we entered Belize City, a bushy head of mostly white hair spilling out of a green cap caught my attention. As we drew closer, I couldn’t help but stare at the elderly security guard at the Belize City Public Works doing a little dance with his arms up in the air. Every now and then, with a big smile, he would pause to greet his friends as they passed by, then he'd continue dancing. Witnessing this, I couldn’t help smiling too. His joy was contagious.

The Lord plants joy in our hearts and loves when we share that gift with others. Sometimes that can be intentional, like smiling at passersby and saying “hello.” Other times, it can be simply how we live our lives. Jesus says that as His followers “[we] are the light of the world” and that we should let our good deeds “shine out for all to see” (Matthew 5:14a & 16a, NLT). So, whether we have naturally bright personalities like the old man at his job, or are more reserved, may we be a blessing to others by spreading our joy to them. 

Reflect: When was the last time you made someone smile or laugh? How can you be more intentional about being a light in the lives of those around you?

Prayer Starter:

Dear Lord, thank you for giving me the gift of joy. Please continue to help me be a light to everyone I meet so that both my joy and theirs will be full. 

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