This Little Light Of Mine

Matthew 5:16 – Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven (KJV)

John 8:12 – Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." (KJV)

As a child living in Britain during World War II, I did not have the privilege of attending Sunday School, because all children's church activities were closed during those uncertain years. When I came to Canada and became involved in the Sunday School ministry, I quickly learned and appreciated the little chorus, "This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine," with its swinging tune.

Today, as we look at our bleak world, we may feel that our little spiritual "light" is too small to penetrate the heavy darkness. During the war, the authorities warned that even a cigarette glowing in the intense blackout could be seen for a great distance into the night sky, and could unintentionally give directions to enemy aircraft. Perhaps we do have a tiny "light" — but we can make a difference, if only to intentionally point The Way. From the simple word picture that Jesus painted for His disciples in today's Scripture, the most challenging and momentous possibilities can emerge through the most ordinary godly life.

For me, this verse encapsulates the possibilities of Christian witness. When we allow our light to shine during the most difficult of personal experiences, those around us will see our little spiritual light continuing to shine, and they will give God the glory. By this acknowledgement, perhaps they will discover for themselves the great Light of the world who daily maintains our glow.

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of being part of this great glowing light of witnesses. We thank You for the privilege of glorifying You by our very lives. We bring our praise and thanks to You in the name of Your Son, Christ Jesus. Amen.