11th May 2022

A thought from George Ford

‘In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.’ (Matthew 5:16)

Reflection

With this Jesus is concluding His teaching on persevering in faith and following His ways by speaking of the effect this should have. How the ‘light’ of His Spirit shining in our words and actions should bring praise and glory to God. St. Paul said something similar. That we should should follow Jesus teaching closely, so as to ‘shine … like stars,’ (Philippians 2:15) in the darkness of the world. Calling on us to reflect Jesus Spirit living in us and so attract others to His ways and to know and love Him too.

Prayer

Loving Lord Jesus, strengthen your Spirit within us that we may hold fast to the light of your word today. Help us to so shine with your love in hearts, words, and actions, that we attract others to follow your ways, and come to know and love you, our Lord and Redeemer. To your everlasting praise and glory. Amen.

Worship

‘Lord, the light of your love is shining, in the midst of the darkness shining; Jesus light of the world, shine upon us, set us free by the truth you now bring us, Shine on me, shine on me. Shine, Jesus shine, fill this land with the Father’s glory; Blaze, Spirit blaze, set our hearts on fire. Flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy; send forth your word, Lord, and let there be light.’ (Graham Kendrick 1987)