Photo by Paulius Dragunas on Unsplash
Lighthouses function most critically in storms and darkness, not in clear weather. Their purpose is revealed precisely when conditions are most treacherous, just as our spiritual light shines most significantly amid cultural confusion.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” (Matthew 5:14-15)
Jesus declares his followers to be illuminators in a darkened world, with a visibility that cannot—and should not—be concealed. Like a strategically positioned lighthouse or elevated town, believers are placed in particular contexts to provide guidance and clarity where it’s most needed. Our light exists not for self-admiration but for navigational assistance to others who might otherwise crash upon rocks or lose their way in fog.
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth).” (Ephesians 5:8-9)
Paul reminds believers of a profound identity transformation—from embodying darkness to becoming light. This metamorphosis occurs “in the Lord,” through relationship rather than rules, changing behaviors and our essential nature. Our new light-bearing identity produces fruit that nourishes others—goodness, righteousness, and truth becoming the nutrients a starving world requires.
Spiritual Discipline: Witness—Witness invites us to intentionally illuminate Christ through our lives. Choose a specific sphere of influence (workplace, neighborhood, family) and pray about how your presence might offer guidance without overwhelming glare or self-righteousness.
Journaling Prompts:
1. Where do I notice people “shipwrecking” around me due to darkness or confusion?
2. What shadows within me sometimes dim the light I’m meant to shine?
Thought and Discussion Questions:
1. How is being a lighthouse different from being a spotlight?
2. What cultural storms make light-bearing most challenging—and most necessary—today?
3. How do we maintain our light when facing strong oppositional winds?
4. What’s the difference between being “visible” and “illuminating”?