The only description for both Jesus and His followers
In reading the New Testament, we discover that Jesus described Himself as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), the Bread of Life (John 6:25), the True Vine (John 15:5), and the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6).
Jesus described His followers as the Salt of the Earth (Matthew 5:13), Branches (John 15:5), and Fishers of Men (Matthew 4:19).
But the only description He used for both Himself and His followers was Light of the World.
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12, NIV)
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light. (Ephesians 5:8, NIV)
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. (Matthew 5:14, NIV)
Have you ever looked up at a full moon on a winter’s night? I love to see the shadows cast against white snow. The amount of light makes it feel like daytime. But the moon does not produce its own light. It gets its light from the reflection of the sun’s light.
Just as the moon reflects the sun’s light, Christians need to reflect Jesus’ love to those around them.
I remember, years ago, I camped in a remote area. I awoke in the middle of the night and desperately needed to use the facilities. I was stunned by the utter darkness surrounding me when I left my tent. No campfires, no streetlights, no moon. Blackness. I felt lost.
As frightening as that experience was for me, it’s more disconcerting to know many people live in similar spiritual darkness. They are lost in the world of sin and separated from God.
As believers, we should reflect Jesus’ light. We need to shine brightly through our words and actions so others can be drawn to God. Just as God brought us into the light through His mercy and grace, we need to love others and share the Good News.
At times, and with certain people, this may be challenging. This is why it’s important to rely on God’s power. His light needs to shine on us and reflect through us.