October 4: Change A Light Day

 

October 4:  Change A Light Day 

Change a Light Day began back in 2005 in the state of Kentucky, when the Kentucky Office of Energy Policy decided to encourage Governor Ernie Fletcher and his wife to proclaim this day as Change a Light Day.

We all know the experience.  We flick the switch, and “pop!”  We scramble to find a fresh bulb, perhaps find a chair or ladder, or just move on, confident that the remaining lights will be adequate.  It’s the latter that represents the most common reaction among God’s people.  Not with actual lights, but with being the light.  That is what needs to change.

I cannot remember a time (I’m only 63 as of this writing) when the world has been more shrouded in darkness. The words of Isaiah ring as true today as ever:  “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” 

The antidote?  While I hate the word “formula” in connection with walking with Christ, our Lord’s answer is simple:   “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that^[b] they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16)

You know this.  This is not new.  What needs to become new is your commitment to do it.  Take the basket off some part of your life.  Rather than trying to eat this elephant all at once, start by choosing one area of your life.  Perhaps it is your attitude at work, the way you treat one individual, your eating or drinking habits, how you spend your money…the list is endless.  But determine today, by the power of God’s Spirit that you will let the light of Christ shine like never before in one new area. 

There is one more thing you will need.  Courage.  The desperate need of our day is not simply light, but the courage to let it shine.  You will be labelled and marginalized.  You will incur the wrath of many around you.  The darkness hates the light!  Pray for revelation and wisdom, to know what to do, and then the courage to do it.  Light without courage is simply darkness.  Courage without light is foolishness.  Determine on this change a light day, that that light will be you.