Monday, December 17, 2007

Let your light shine

Matthew 5:14-16 says, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."

When Natalie taught Kindergarten a few years ago, she taught her children the classic song, "This little light of mine." Some of the other stanzas begin, "Hide it under a bushel? No!" and "Don't let Satan (puff) it out." But my wife and her co-teacher thought up a new stanza for this song: "Shine your light at Christmastime, I'm gonna let it shine." I like that.

So, how are you letting your light shine this Christmas? Christmas is one of the best opportunities you will have all year to shine for Christ. Here are a few ideas:

  • Invite a friend to church next Sunday. The North American Mission Board reported that 61% of Americans plan on attending a religious service this holiday. Maybe your friend is just waiting to be asked to come with you.
  • Invite an unsaved friend to your house for dinner on Christmas
  • Have an open house and invite some neighbors
  • Include a Christmas tract in your Christmas cards, or smile and hand one out to the clerk while Christmas shopping. (It's probably a little late to order for this year, but it's something to keep in mind for the future.)
Any other suggestions out there? Just add a comment below. And be sure to shine your light at Christmastime!


1 comment:

Monique said...

Share the gospel and scripture on your blog! Capture the blogging world! :) Good suggestions Stephen. I'm going to teach my daughter that new stanza and pass it along to our children's worship director too!