In the wee hours of
the morning, lately, the sky has been free of clouds, its vast darkness creating
the perfect backdrop for viewing the myriad of stars and planets God has strewn
across the heavens. One in the East seems to pulsate with brilliant light.
According to the Internet, it is the planet, Venus.
At other times of the day, even the brightest of stars and planets are impossible to see. Some mornings the cloud cover hides most of them. Smoke, fog, haze, and precipitation can obscure them. The position and configuration of the stars and planets changes as our planet orbits, so, our view of them can differ with the season and make them less visible. But they are still there, shining as radiantly as they do on a crystal clear, pre-dawn morning.
The Bible compares us to the stars. Daniel 12:3 says that the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens. And that those who lead many to righteousness, will shine like the stars. Jesus tells us we are to let our light shine before others, that they may see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16) Paul encourages us, in Philippians 2:14-16, to do everything without complaining or arguing, so that we can shine like stars lighting up the sky, as we offer the world the Message of Life.
Many times, we can feel that trying to shine the Light of Jesus in this world is impossible. Like the elements that can obscure the stars and planets, there are circumstances and situations that can make it difficult for us to share God’s Good News with others.
However, there are hints in the verses above, on how to continue sharing the Light, despite whatever may be trying to shroud it. Daniel encourages us to be wise and to lead others to righteousness. Matthew points out that good and godly actions can reflect Jesus’ Light in this sin-darkened world (Matt. 5: 14-16). And Paul cautions us that we must serve without complaining or arguing, (Phil. 2: 14-16), for the attitude we bring to our actions can either enhance God’s message or block it out completely.
No matter how dark the place where we find ourselves, with God’s help, we can still shine like the stars.
Be encouraged!
