“Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.” - 1 Peter 2:12

Scripture tells us that we are like lamps meant to provide light in the darkness. No one would place a bowl over a lamp or try to obscure a light fixture if they were trying to see during the night. No, they would let the lamp shine brightly. So, too, are we intended to do good deeds and shine before others (Matthew 5:16).

Living as lights before others, though, is not easy. Like those workers who entered the areas affected by flooding, continuing to do good requires sacrifice and intentionality. We must be willing to get involved with the messy parts of people’s lives, getting our hands dirty as we plant hope and love.

At times, we may even be exposed to hazards on the job. As our Lord told us, people may hate us for what we work for and the One we serve (John 15:18-21). However, if we hold onto the blessings promised to us, focusing our eyes on Christ, we will be able to continue to illuminate the shadows of our broken world (Matthew 5:11-12). By His power, we can bless rather than curse. Forgive instead of holding a grudge. Serve rather than be served. And love even when it’s hard.
The light we shine into the darkness is not so that others can focus on and praise us. We do good because that is what we are made to do as new creations in Christ, and it is an extension of our love for Him. Ultimately, every righteous act points to the Lord who will receive honor and praise on the day of His coming: “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11,

Lord of all,

You know more than anyone about the brokenness in this world. The wars, violence, natural disasters, death, and heartache. You see it all. And as You demonstrated during the time of the flood in Genesis, You despair of the wickedness that exists on earth. Even now, Your heart breaks for the shadow over life, the shadow You will one day destroy. That is why You sent Your Son to die for us and give us the gift of eternal life. When tragedy strikes, God, help us to trust in You and serve as a light to others. May the daily rhythms of our lives train us to walk in Your ways and behave honorably toward others so that they may see Your love through our actions. We want our lives to be a witness that leads others to glorify You.

In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.