A Light in the Window
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 5:14-16 KJV
This is an original fictional illustration, not a historical report or an added Bible event.
The wind knocked the electricity out just before supper. Nora's father put a battery lantern on the table. Its small light helped him pour milk without spilling it.
Then Nora remembered Mrs. Lane next door. Her father called to check on her, and the family carried over an extra lantern. Nora held the door while Mrs. Lane found a safe place to set it.
On the walk home, Nora said the lantern was not very big. Her father agreed, but it had helped someone see. Jesus uses the picture of light when He teaches His disciples about doing good. Nora did not have to be old enough to repair electric wires. She could help carry a lantern, hold a door, and care about a neighbor. Small kindness can point people toward our good heavenly Father.
A small step for today
A light helps people see. Jesus used that picture to speak about His followers. Let people see kindness and honesty in the things you do. Share the work and tell the truth. You do not need to announce every good deed. The purpose is for God to receive glory, rather than for everyone to clap for you.
For the grown-up reading along
Jesus tells His disciples to let their good works point others to the Father. The purpose is God's glory, not attention for the person doing the work.
Read the KJV passage aloud. Explain unfamiliar words in ordinary language without changing the quotation.
Read further: Matthew 5 in the King James Bible.