Philippians: Shine Like Stars
It’s another grey day. The sun was out briefly this morning, but it seems like forever since we’ve had a full day of sun. Perhaps that’s why it seemed to shine so brightly (that, and the newly fallen snow making everything white!). When things are dark, light appears brighter. If you were in an arena with all the powerful lights turned on, the light from a flashlight would be lost. But turn the lights off and that flashlight would stand out!
As Christians we’re called to shine. Jesus encouraged His disciples and followers to be “the light of the world . . . [and] let their light shine before others” (Matt 5:14-16). In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul says “you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light” (Eph 5:8). John encourages the early church by telling them “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, purifies us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7)
Shining means standing out against the darkness. It means offering an alternative to what’s happening in the world, a better way, the only way to new life. It means shining truth on lies, and offering grace instead of condemnation. By shining like stars we will guide people to Christ, the only one who can save.
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.” Philippians 2:14-15.
If you haven’t read through Philippians this week, do so before Sunday. Our gathering starts at 6pm — hope to see you there.
Pastor Mike
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