Starry Night 1889 by Vincent van Gogh
Today’s Topic: Illumination
Last week, we explored The Parable of the Sower, where we learned that the ground of our hearts must be prepared to receive His Word. Sometimes, this means clearing out the weeds - our worries, rocky ground, and thorns - to create an environment where inspired faith in Christ can flourish.
We want our hearts ready to absorb the living water of the Word that nourishes our souls. Remember, some seasons are tougher than others, and life’s worries can hinder our fruitfulness.
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Passage Today:
“No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.” - Luke 8:16-18
Jesus uses the imagery of a lamp to emphasize that its purpose is to illuminate the darkness, not to be hidden away. This passage challenges us to reflect on our testimonies: Are we allowing His light to shine brightly? Are we concealing the light in shadows of fear, doubt, carelessness, or lack of confidence?
“Light was created on the first day, not on the third, fourth, or sixth, but on the first day; and one of the first operations of the Spirit of God in a man’s heart is to give light enough to see his lost estate, and to perceive that he cannot save himself from it but must look elsewhere.” - Charles Spurgeon
Truth Reveals
“The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” - Psalm 119:130
I had an embarrassing moment this past week that I want to share. On Tuesday evenings, my wife and I lead a small group at our church. While I enjoy the people aspect, my wife focuses on the details of serving others. This week, she prepared a lovely spread of snacks, including hummus, pita bread, spinach artichoke dip, and Chicken Salad Chick options.
After our meeting, we had some leftovers. The next day, I decided to enjoy some of the leftover spinach artichoke dip. However, when I went to the pantry for crackers, I saw the last half sleeve of Ritz Crackers. In a moment of inconsideration, I didn’t ask if anyone else in the family wanted them.
A couple of hours later, my wife comes downstairs asking for crackers to go with her chicken salad. I had to admit that I had eaten the last of them, and off I went to Publix to buy more.
Lesson learned: if you see the last sleeve of Ritz Crackers, ask before you eat! This moment exposed my selfishness - a reminder that truth always reveals.
Warnings and Opportunities
Returning to our passage, Jesus warns us about the dangers of neglecting the light within. He reminds us that “nothing hidden will remain concealed.” While truth can be liberating, it can also be sobering. We must consider where we might be hiding His light - perhaps out of fear of judgment of others, worry, or misguided belief that we have nothing to offer.
Listening is equally vital in our journey of revelation. Are we paying attention to the Words of God and the Holy Spirit’s gentle whispers? The way we listen influences our ability to shine. By tending ourselves in the Word and prayer, we cultivate an openness, inviting His light into our hearts and circumstances.
Light & Prayer
Interestingly, the word “light” appears more frequently in Psalms than in any other book of the Bible. Is there a connection between light and prayer? The Psalmist writes, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” - Psalm 119:105.
“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” - C.S. Lewis
Reflective Questions:
How can we be more attentive listeners, not just to God’s voice but also to the needs of those around us?
In what ways can we let the light of Christ shine more brightly in our current circumstances?
Are you and I willing to be bolder in witnessing and sharing the Gospel with others, especially in today’s dark culture?
Closing Prayer:
Lord, draw our hearts and minds closer to You. Help us to be quick to listen and expectant in our prayers. May we seek to bring Your light into our troubles and everyday situations. I pray this in the name of Jesus, the Light of the Word. Amen.
If the light that comes from the Word of God takes root in your soul, as Jesus explained in the parable of the Sower, it is truth that must never be hidden. - R.C. Sproul
References/Resources
Starry Night 1889 by Vincent van Gogh
Christ, “I am the Light of the World” - John 8:12, John 9:5.
Light - Word is repeated most in these books of the Bible: Psalms (x35), Job (x31) and in the New Testament, Book of John (x16).
Parable of the Lamp: Matthew 5:13-16; Mark 4:21-25; Luke 8:16-18
Sermon: Parable of the Revealed Light by R.C. Sproul
Sermon: Light, Natural and Spiritual by Charles Spurgeon, 11/12/1865.
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