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God With Us- The Hope of Christmas

Matthew 1:18-25

Christmas is a time when we celebrate the miraculous – the arrival of Immanuel, “God with us.” In Matthew 1:18-25, we see the extraordinary story unfold with Mary, Joseph, and an angelic messenger. These key figures remind us of the weight of God’s plan and the depth of His love.

Mary and Joseph: Faithful and Obedient

Mary was most likely a young woman, perhaps even a teenager, as was customary for betrothals in her time. Betrothal was more than an engagement; it was a binding agreement. Breaking it required a legal divorce. This context sheds light on Joseph’s decision when he learned of Mary’s pregnancy. He initially planned to “put her away” quietly, meaning to divorce her without shame.

Mary faced immense risks with this pregnancy:

  1. Her Virginity: As a virgin pledged to be married, her pregnancy was scandalous. It took divine intervention for Joseph to believe and accept the miraculous truth.
  2. Cultural Law: According to Old Testament law, a woman found unfaithful could face severe punishment, even death (Leviticus 20:10).
  3. Stigma: Despite knowing the truth, both Mary and Joseph would face societal whispers about Jesus’ legitimacy.

The Incarnation: God With Us

Mary’s pregnancy by the Holy Spirit is the foundation of the incarnation. Jesus had to be born of a woman but without inheriting the sinful nature passed down from Adam. This miraculous conception fulfilled a prophecy made hundreds of years earlier:

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14

Why does the incarnation matter? Jesus, fully God and fully man, was uniquely qualified to rescue humanity. Only a sinless man could atone for sinful humanity, and only God could bear the weight of that sin.

Charles Spurgeon captures the mystery of the incarnation: “It is a deep, mysterious, and delicate subject, fitter for reverent faith than for speculative curiosity.”

Paul Tripp adds, “The incarnation of Jesus Christ pointedly preaches our inescapable need for radical, personal, and moral rescue and forgiveness.”

Belief and Obedience

Belief leads to obedience, and obedience strengthens belief. Faith itself is a gift from God:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9

Mary and Joseph’s actions exemplify this truth. Mary praised God, as recorded in Luke’s Gospel, while Joseph obeyed by taking Mary as his wife and refraining from consummating their marriage until after Jesus was born. Their obedience reminds us to trust God’s plan even when it challenges our understanding.

The Christmas Message: Good News and Bad News

Christmas brings both good news and bad news. The bad news is that humanity is broken and in desperate need of rescue. Sin has separated us from God, and no human effort can bridge the gap. But the good news is far greater: God did not leave us in our helpless state. Through Jesus, He provided the only way to be rescued.

Christmas reminds us of God’s kindness, love, and goodness. Jesus is our rescuer, Immanuel, God with us. As we celebrate, let us reflect on the miracle of His birth and the hope it brings to all who believe.

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When News Changes Everything

What’s the greatest news you’ve ever heard? Was it a surprise trip? Finding out you were going to be a parent? A promotion at work? Or maybe it was hearing about something incredible that happened to a friend or loved one.

It’s hard to rank life’s greatest moments, but there’s one piece of news that surpasses them all. In fact, it’s so good that it holds the #1 spot for everyone, whether they realize it or not.

This news is twofold:

1. The Birth of the Savior

Imagine this scene: shepherds are watching their flocks one quiet night when suddenly an angel appears, breaking the stillness with an incredible announcement:

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).

The angel goes on to describe where they can find the baby, and then, as if to punctuate the moment, a multitude of angels fills the sky, praising God and declaring:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased” (Luke 2:14).

Can you imagine the wonder of that moment? The Savior—prophesied for centuries—had finally arrived! The King of Kings, the Redeemer, Jesus Christ, was born!

But the birth of Jesus wasn’t just a miraculous event in history. It had a purpose. As Paul reminds us:

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15).

The good news of Jesus’ birth leads us to the second part of this greatest news.

2. His Death and Resurrection

While birth announcements bring joy, it’s strange to think of a death announcement as part of the greatest news. Yet, the gospel tells us that Jesus’ death wasn’t a tragedy—it was a triumph.

Jesus, the sinless Son of God, willingly gave His life for sinful humanity. His death on the cross paid the penalty for our sins, demonstrating both the seriousness of sin and the depth of God’s love.

But the story doesn’t end there. Three days later, Jesus rose from the grave, proving His victory over sin and death. This is why the angel at the tomb could say to the women who came to anoint Jesus’ body:

“Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, as He said. Come, see the place where He lay” (Matthew 28:5-6).

The resurrection of Jesus is the continuation—and completion—of the greatest news ever declared.

Our Response to the Greatest News

In both the birth and resurrection of Jesus, angels delivered the news along with instructions.

• At Jesus’ birth, the shepherds were told to find the baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger (Luke 2:12). Their response? “They went with haste” (Luke 2:16). They believed the message and obeyed, finding and worshiping Jesus.

• At the empty tomb, the women were told to go and tell the disciples that Jesus had risen. Their response? “They departed quickly…and ran to tell His disciples” (Matthew 28:8). They, too, believed and obeyed.

The pattern is clear: belief leads to obedience.

The birth of Jesus points to His purpose—to save sinners through His death and resurrection. And the empty tomb assures us that the Savior lives!

Sharing the News

The greatest news isn’t meant to stay with us. Like the shepherds and the women at the tomb, we’re called to share it with others. Jesus Himself commanded us:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

The birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus are the foundation of the gospel—the good news that changes everything. Let’s believe it, live it, and share it boldly.

How do you respond to the greatest news?

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Lessons From the Fog: Trusting God When Life Feels Heavy

We often get weather alerts warning us of extreme conditions—high winds, heavy rain, or even an “atmospheric river.” Living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re no strangers to rain. But recently, we had a warning about extreme fog. Sure enough, thick, heavy fog rolled in, limiting visibility and creating a tangible heaviness in the air.

This got me thinking about how the Bible uses darkness as a metaphor for sin, separation from God, heaviness, loneliness, or seasons of despair. Today, we might describe a “dark state” as depression or deep sadness. These seasons of darkness can be triggered by our own choices, circumstances outside our control, or even the actions of others.

Throughout Scripture, there are references to the “night of the soul” or the “darkness of night.” These phrases echo the experiences of believers who have felt a profound absence of God’s presence. Have you ever been in a season like this—where it seemed like the darkness would never lift? How did you handle it?

The Bible offers a profound story of light breaking into a literal and spiritual darkness. In Acts 16, we read about Paul and Silas, two missionaries in Philippi. After casting out a demonic spirit from a girl, they were met with anger from those who had exploited her for profit. This act of compassion led to their imprisonment:

“Having received this order, he [the jailer] put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them” (Acts 16:24-25).

A few things stand out in this passage:

1. They were imprisoned for doing good. Despite their good deed, they faced unjust punishment.

2. They were placed in the inner prison. This was the harshest part of the jail, reserved for the worst criminals.

3. They chose to pray and sing. Instead of grumbling or despairing, they turned to God in worship.

4. They used their misfortune as a witness. Their prayers and songs reached the ears of other prisoners.

This story reminds me that in moments of darkness, it’s crucial to remember the truths of Scripture. Sometimes, this comes easily. Other times, it’s a struggle to hold on to hope. Two practices have helped me navigate seasons of darkness: praying and singing.

Praying in the Darkness

Prayer is more than asking God for help—it’s abiding with Him. It’s bringing our hearts before God in praise, confession, supplication, and thanksgiving. Even moments of silent prayer, where we simply desire to be in His presence, can be transformative.

One powerful practice is praying through Scripture. I wonder if Paul and Silas prayed through the Psalms—perhaps reminding themselves that God is their rock, shield, and shelter. Praying Scripture anchors our hearts in God’s promises and redirects our focus from our circumstances to His faithfulness.

Singing in the Darkness

I don’t have the best singing voice, but I’ve learned the importance of singing to the Lord. Paul and Silas sang hymns, likely based on Psalms. Singing Scripture allows us to internalize God’s truth in a unique and powerful way.

Recently, during a difficult season, I found myself turning to Scripture-based worship songs. Singing helped shift my focus from the weight of my circumstances to the promises of God. It reminded me of His sovereignty, faithfulness, and grace. It also pointed me back to the cross—the ultimate demonstration that darkness does not have the final word.

The Darkness Will Lift

Paul and Silas experienced a miraculous deliverance. But even when our problems don’t resolve immediately, we have the assurance that the darkness will not last forever. Like the fog, it may feel heavy and impenetrable, but it will lift.

As 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us:

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

No matter how thick the darkness seems, the One who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light holds us securely in His hands. When the darkness doesn’t lift right away, let’s follow Paul and Silas’s example—praying, singing, and trusting the God who shines His light in the midst of it all.

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Marvelous Light: God’s Promise of Transformation from 1 Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.– 1 Peter 2:9

I enjoy sunsets as the colors that are painted are extraordinary but I also really enjoy sunrises as light pierces the darkness. Instead of a fading light, a sunrise is bright and grows from the birth of the morning. 

Peter is writing about a new group who are made up of both Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians- the church. In his encouragement of directing them in their position in Christ, Holy- their purpose, as priests and their freedom- from darkness to his marvelous light.

1. Understanding Darkness

It is show in the Bible as Sin, separation from God, spiritual blindness, or hopelessness (John 3:19-21, Ephesians 5:8). The Bible tells us our life outside of Christ as lost or dead in our sins and trespasses. We are not only without direction, more so, we were headed in the wrong direction (Ephesians 2:1-3). 

Have you ever felt stuck in a dark season of life?

Have you ever felt like you could not break free from sin? 

We have this great news- Jesus has brought us out of darkness into his marvelous light.

2. The Call to Marvelous Light

God is the one who calls us out of darkness through His grace (John 8:12). We don’t initiate this, but God does. As we know his motivation is his agape love that he has for us (John 3:16). What Is Marvelous Light? It is God’s presence, truth, and the hope of salvation. 

Just like actual like and darkness stand in contrast with one another, there is the stark contrast of God’s marvelous light with the darkness of sin. Some of those would be Salvation and sin. Forgiveness and guilt. New Life and bondage to sin

3. The Transforming Power of God’s Light

Notice the transforming power leads to this New Identity. What does this mean for believers today? It means that there is the transformation action for today and for eternity. 

The transformation action for today means we are to live differently because of the Jesus. We are to be a light to this world (Matthew 5:14-16). This means we reflect Christ likeness as we are called to love our neighbors and even our enemies. 

Transformation action for eternity means that this change will come fully complete one day. We are new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). This means we have received and are receiving all that we need for eternity. He who began a work in us will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6).

4. Our Purpose in the Light

We are to reflect this truth, being brought into his marvelous light by reflecting him. Just like the moon reflects the light of the sun, we reflect God’s light through worship and testimony.

Worship is more than singing, but involves singing. D. A. Carson writes, Worship is the proper response of all moral, sentient beings to God, ascribing all honor and worth to their Creator-God precisely because he is worthy, delightfully so.” 

We are reminded that obedient living is an act of worship to God (Romans 12:1-2). This means our lives are to reflect who Jesus and why he came.

The idea of reflecting the truth that we have been brought from darkness into God’s marvelous light because of Jesus, this means we proclaim this through our testimony. We are to be witnesses and to make disciples of Jesus (Matthew 18:19; Acts 1:8).

What are some ways you can grow in sharing your faith?

The Christians life is to be of worship and testimony as it points to the marvelous transformation that God has done in us and through us because of Jesus Christ.

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The Unfading Light

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.John 1:1-3 (ESV)

Our house has some high vaulted ceilings that make changing lightbulbs a little difficult. We have to use either a really tall ladder or a pole with a suction cup at the end. I’m not a fan of either. So, I try to replace them with nice LED bulbs, hoping they’ll outlast me.

Everlasting

Jesus, the Light of the world, has no beginning and no end. In the book of Revelation, He is described as the Alpha and Omega — a declaration of His preeminence and eternal existence.

In John’s Gospel, we don’t find a genealogy of names tracing Jesus’ earthly lineage. Instead, we are presented with an ever-existing description of Him. John declares that He was in the beginning — present at creation — and that all things were made through Him and by Him.

This profound truth shapes our faith. Knowing that Jesus has always existed assures us that He is unchanging. His promises are not temporary or conditional. When He says in Matthew 28:20, “I am with you always, to the end of the age,”it is a promise backed by eternity. Similarly, in Hebrews 13:5, we find comfort in His words: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

The Light That Can’t Be Dimmed

Back to lightbulbs. In our home, we have a chandelier that fades as the bulbs begin to fail. The weakening light signals that replacement is near. In contrast, Jesus, God the Son, has always existed and will always exist. He will never fade or fail. As John’s Gospel reminds us, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).

This light is not just for comfort; it is for victory. Jesus is the victorious, everlasting King. His light defeats the darkness, bringing hope to a broken world. We do not need to fear the encroaching shadows, for the light of Christ will always prevail. When we walk in the light, as He is in the light, He will guide us and see us through (1 John 1:6).

Let this truth guide your heart today: the light of Christ is eternal and unfading. As we face the uncertainties and struggles of life, we can rest in His eternal presence and power. Unlike lightbulbs that dim and fail, His light will never fade. He is always with us, leading us toward His glory.

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Light Forever

Revelation 22:5: “And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.”

I hate coming home to a dark house. We don’t have a smart home where we can control the lights from our phones, but there are times I wish we could. Usually, it’s when we come home from shopping or some other activity and I have to enter the house with my hands full, fumbling to find a light switch in the darkness.

When I come home, I like turning on most of the lights in the house to feel comfortable. Light brings a sense of security, warmth, and clarity. It dispels the unknown and the unease that comes with darkness.

During the Christmas season, we’re reminded that Jesus described Himself as “The Light of the World.” His coming was the life-light that broke through the darkness of sin, bringing hope to a fallen world. But the light He brings is not just a temporary glow to illuminate our present path; it is an everlasting light that will one day make all wrong things right (Revelation 21:5).

Darkness Will Be No More

Darkness in Scripture often represents sin, evil, and separation from God. Revelation 21:4 declares that all of this will be no more. Jesus will completely eradicate the darkness—sin and its effects will be gone forever.

-No More Sickness: Imagine a world with no debilitating diseases, no cancer, no dreaded calls from the doctor with bad news. There will be no more genetic defects, no more frailty in our bodies, and no more groaning of creation under the weight of the fall.

– No More Death: Death, the shadow that has loomed over humanity since the fall, will be gone forever. We will be transformed and given bodies that will last eternally (*Philippians 3:20-21*). The grief and sting of loss will be erased as death itself is swallowed up in victory.

– No More Pangs of Sin: Revelation 21:4 also promises that there will be no more crying or mourning because the root cause—sin—will be eliminated. Every source of pain, shame, and regret will be wiped away in the glorious presence of our Savior.

Hope In Grief

If you have ever lost someone close to you, you know the deep ache that death brings. This will be my third Christmas without my mom, and the pain of her absence is still real. There are moments of tears and grief, but I cling to the hope Paul speaks of in *1 Thessalonians 4:13: “We do not grieve as those who have no hope.”

This hope doesn’t erase the sorrow, but it transforms it. It’s a reminder that the light of Jesus has not only come into the world but will one day shine eternally, banishing every shadow of sin and death.

As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember that the Light of the World has come and that His light is everlasting. A day is coming when darkness will be no more, and we will dwell forever in the glorious, comforting light of God.

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The Darkness has Lifted

Isaiah 9:2

There’s a business near us in Washington that decorates for Christmas in an absolutely breathtaking way. The sheer number of lights and the vibrant variety of colors immediately grab your attention. When you drive by at night, you can’t help but marvel at their beauty.  

What makes these lights so stunning is the contrast—they shine so brightly against the darkness. During the day, those same lights are on the trees and buildings, but they don’t have nearly the same impact. The darkness allows their brilliance to stand out. 

This contrast reminds me of the prophet Isaiah’s words about the coming of Christ. Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, Isaiah spoke of a long-awaited change, a moment when light would break into the darkness of this world. He writes,  

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone” (Isaiah 9:2).  

Isaiah paints a picture of constant, overwhelming darkness, as if the world was void of light. Then, he describes the arrival of Jesus—the Light of the world, God in the flesh, dwelling among us. Just as Christmas lights pierce the night, so Jesus came to pierce the darkness of sin and despair. His coming wasn’t ordinary or subtle; it was powerful, wonderful, and life-changing.  

Israel was living in darkness, not only because of the sin in the land, such as idolatry, but also because they were awaiting the fulfillment of God’s promises. Everything written about Jesus in the Old Testament was a foreshadowing of His coming, yet the people struggled to hold on to hope. Despite repeated warnings from the prophets, the nation failed to heed God’s call to repentance. Judgment came upon them because of their sin, leaving them in despair and longing for deliverance.  

Amid this darkness, Isaiah’s prophecy shines as a beacon of hope. He foretells the birth of a child who would bring light and life, declaring Him to be the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). This was no ordinary child but the promised Messiah—Jesus, who would fulfill every word spoken about Him and bring salvation to a world lost in sin.  

But why do we need this Light? From the moment Adam sinned, humanity has been cursed, living under the weight of darkness—a spiritual separation from God. Without Christ, that darkness consumes us. Yet in His great mercy, Jesus came to bring light to our souls, to free us from the curse of sin and death.  

As we go about the busyness of this season, let’s not let the familiarity of the story dull its wonder. Take time to reflect on the magnitude of what Jesus has done. He didn’t just come to be a light; He came to be our light, offering hope, redemption, and life. He came to save sinners like you and me. It is by him alone. 

This truth is not only for today but also for our eternal future—secured by Jesus through His life, death, and resurrection. In moments when our days feel overshadowed by darkness, we can cling to the hope He brings. Jesus has shattered the power of sin and death, breaking through the darkness to declare, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). His light is our constant guide, offering hope, peace, and assurance no matter how dark life may seem.  

So, this Christmas, as you see lights shining in the darkness, let them remind you of Jesus—the Light that has come into the world. Take a moment to give thanks for this wonderful truth and let the light of Christ shine in your heart.  

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The Light Has Come

1 John 1:5-10

Living in the Pacific Northwest during the fall and winter months can feel like an endless November. The sky is often gray, the rain constant, and the sun elusive. The days grow shorter, and even when the sun peeks out, it feels fleeting. Yet, those brief moments of sunshine bring warmth and refreshment—physically and emotionally. There’s something inherently life-giving about light after prolonged darkness, a reminder of something greater: the Light of the world, Jesus Christ. 

The Light Promised  

The prophet Isaiah foretold the coming of Christ, describing it as light breaking into deep darkness: 

Isaiah 9:2, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.”

In the fullness of time, God fulfilled this promise. Galatians 4:4 tells us that God sent His Son at just the right moment, shining light into a spiritually dark world. Israel had experienced centuries of waiting, seeing only glimpses of God’s plan. Then, the birth of Christ shattered the spiritual November, signaling the dawn of salvation. 

Even in the nativity story, light plays a significant role. The star that guided the wise men to Jesus in Matthew 2 wasn’t just a celestial marker; it symbolized Christ as the Light of the world. Similarly, the shepherds encountered the radiant glory of the Lord when the angel announced Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:9). These manifestations pointed to Jesus, who is God with us—Immanuel. 

God is Light  

In 1 John 1:5, we read:  “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.”

The imagery of light and darkness speaks to sin and salvation. Unlike fictional tales where light and darkness are equally matched (think Star Wars), God’s light overpowers darkness completely. Jesus, the Light of the world, has authority over sin and death, a truth established from the very beginning.  

After the fall of humanity in Genesis 3, God promised a Savior, declaring that the offspring of the woman would crush the serpent’s head (Genesis 3:15). Spurgeon describes this promise as swift mercy—a glimpse of hope before the full weight of sin’s curse was even pronounced. Jesus, the snake crusher, came to fulfill this promise, vanquishing sin and offering redemption. 

The Purpose of Jesus’ Coming  

Jesus didn’t come merely to make a statement or gather followers. He wasn’t a celebrity seeking a fan club. His mission was far greater: to defeat sin, redeem humanity, and bring us into fellowship with God. John 1:9-10 emphasizes this: 

“The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.” 

Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection call us out of darkness into His marvelous light. He cleanses us from sin and transforms our hearts, enabling us to live for Him. 

Walking in the Light  

1 John 1:6 challenges us to examine our lives:  

“If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.”

Being a Christian isn’t about outward appearances or checking religious boxes; it’s about a transformed life. When we walk in the light, we reflect Christ in our actions, speech, and attitudes. 

This truth struck me as a high school freshman. Although I grew up in a Christian environment, someone pointed out that my life didn’t look any different from those who didn’t follow Christ. That realization forced me to confront where I stood with Jesus. Was I truly walking in the light?  

Cleansed by His Blood  

Verse 7 provides the assurance of forgiveness for those who belong to Christ: 

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”

The cleansing power of Jesus’ blood covers our past, present, and future sins. This isn’t a license to live however we want but a motivation to pursue holiness, knowing that we are forgiven. 

Confession and Forgiveness  

1 John 1:9 reminds us of God’s faithfulness:  

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 

Confession isn’t about earning forgiveness—it’s about restoring fellowship with God. Through Christ’s work on the cross, we have the assurance that our sins are forgiven, and we can approach God with confidence. 

Conclusion  

Without Jesus, we would remain in spiritual darkness. But the Light of the world has come, overcoming sin and death and offering us new life. 

– Are you walking in the light?  

– Are you looking to God for forgiveness and transformation through Jesus? 

May we remember that Christ is the Light who brings hope, joy, and eternal fellowship with God. Let His light shine in your life and through your life, reflecting His glory to a world in need of Him.