Matthew 5:16 was my morning prayer on one of the final days of my trip. Inherent in that prayer was that God found me worthy enough to be that light. When I pray that prayer, I subconsciously expect some monumental occurrence to happen alerting me that the prayer was answered—that I have actually illuminated God’s love. I stopped a child from running into the street. I paid for someone’s groceries at the register. I organized a relief mission for a devastated area. It was not until my nighttime journaling that I realized how God had answered my prayer that day.
I sat in the train station lounge reading my book. An elderly Asian woman with a strong accent approached me and asked if I had Wi-Fi service on my phone. She wanted help connecting her phone. She handed me her phone, and I was able to connect her. She was very appreciative. Later as I stood, she asked if I was headed for the train. I asked her what her train number was. I then went to the lounge concierge to ask what train he had announced. It was her train and was leaving soon. I signaled to her to get her things while letting the concierge know an elderly passenger was coming. I went to help her. She made it to the red cap.
I tell this story not seeking praise for myself. Instead, I hope it highlights (1) that God does answer prayer in unexpected ways and (2) that it does not take grandiose events to be God’s light. It had to have been God’s light that drew the woman to me. You see, reading a book was my “Do not disturb” sign. Reading was my introverted vibe saying, “Don’t talk to me.” There were others nearby, yet she felt comfortable or compelled to approach me for help. That could only be God. As my friend Lynda commented, “When you are the light, nothing you can do can hide it.” The woman handed me her phone and did not freak out as I scrolled through looking for the Wi-Fi icon. It was only God that created that trust relationship between her and me. It had to have been God’s light indwelling in me that tamped down my irritation and allowed me to help her patiently, both with her phone and getting to her train.
The good works manifested by God’s light in me, in us, do not have to be extraordinary or newsworthy deeds. Simply acting kindly, lovingly, respectfully, and patiently with our fellow human shines God’s light. If we love God and each other, then that love will be the light of our good works. We, the children of God, will be the light.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16 NRSVUE
Prayer: God, we are thankful that you allow us to reflect the goodness of your Son. Let the light of Jesus continually shine through us to others. May they see the glory of you in our acts. Amen
Reflection: Think about your day. How did you shine God’s light?
Bri, you put into words what I feel quite a bit of the time just going through my normal days. Just being me and not seeking or doing things for notice. Well put and now I am encouraged even more to just be me and let God’s light shine through me as best I can. Small things do matter.
As always, Sabrina, I loved the writing. It not only gave me pause for thought, but I received information that gave me new insight into God’s expectations of me. Some things I do automatically because of who I am. Some I don’t do because of age and today’s conditions. But I can always be a better person by doing what I can with the ever-present help of God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Thank you, Sweetie.
Sabrina, thanks so much for shining your light. It truly did land this way. I was hesitant about participating in a charity affair today. Your message helped me to gather my thoughts and think about others and not about myself. Thanks.