Light of the World

Who is the light of the world? Who does Jesus call a shining city on a hill? Who could be worthy of that description?

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.”

Matthew 5:14-18

Indeed it is not the worthy but the undeserving who are thrust into that role. The audience to whom he gives that glowing description are not perfect– no one is– but they aren’t even Christians! No, these were Jewish people who sought out Jesus after he had completed a campaign of healing mercy. They were seekers of hope in a land occupied by foreigners and a religion controlled by the corrupt.

Jesus came to them to bless them with a Law fulfilled; he was completing the promises God made to his people, not overwriting them. In return, those who had the faith to seek the hope he provided became a shining example, not due to their virtue, but God’s grace.

Ethan Kirl