Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Called to be the Light

Isaiah 60:1-10

V. 1: "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you”

In a world often overshadowed by sin and despair, we strive to fill the voids within us, seeking meaning and purpose. Amidst this pursuit, the brilliance of our inner light and the hope that guides us can sometimes be obscured. Once shrouded in darkness and oppression, the people of Israel emerged as a beacon of light and honor among nations through divine transformation.
 
As Israel was called to radiate God's glory amidst the darkness, we are entrusted with kindling hope in this world. Our task is to illuminate lives with the radiance of God's love, dispelling the shadows of hopelessness. Our response echoes Isaiah's words in a society yearning for direction: "Arise and shine” (Isaiah 60:1). 
 
In our routines, we often miss the influence we possess. A genuine conversation, a comforting smile, or a moment of empathy can profoundly impact someone's day. Just as we crave companionship in our struggles, others also seek comfort. Stepping out of our comfort zones, we become vessels of God's love, reassuring them that they are not alone. Recognizing our potential, God calls us to be light-bearers even in uncertainty. Jesus' words in Matthew 5:14-16remind us that we are the light of the world. When infused with kindness, grace, and love, our actions and attitudes mirror Christ's nature, piercing through the darkest times. 
 
We must acknowledge and wholeheartedly embrace our responsibility. With gratitude and determination, we share God's love, unwavering hope, and timeless truths. In a world seeking guidance, we are torchbearers of divine illumination, embodying hope in a landscape that craves it. Amidst shadows, we must respond to the timeless call. As living embodiments of eternal promise, we light up lives and glorify the Father. In a world saturated with shadows, we arise and shine, igniting purpose's path before us.

 

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us to be the light in a world that often dwells in darkness. May your light shine through us and guide those around us towards your love and truth. Grant us the courage to step out in faith and be the source of hope and encouragement to those in need. Guide us in our path so that our words and actions reveal your abundance of mercy and love. In your precious name, we pray, amen. 



Thought for the Day

Embrace the opportunity to be a light in someone's life today by sharing God’s love, for even a small act of kindness can illuminate their world and make a lasting difference. 


Anjana Thomas
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church, NY

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