Check out all the previous Ripple Effect readings here.
Ripple Effect Reading | Week 3 | Day 1
Prayer
As you come to spend time with Jesus, calm your mind and body until you feel fully present. Ask Him to teach you more about Himself today.
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16
Read these verses three times slowly.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Reflection & Questions
When was the last time you turned a light on and then hid it? Never! Jesus’ words in today’s reading draws on this common sense. God has made His people “the light of the world.” He did not do this for us to then hide that light! He wants us to go and light up the world.
How do we do that? Jesus tells us, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds…” We shine through good deeds. Deeds like helping a neighbor who just had surgery. Tutoring the child struggling in math. Serving on a TAG team. Even the simple compliment to the checker at the grocery store. We’re to be a light!
Why did God light us up? So people might think well of us? Never! Jesus says, “that they may…glorify your Father in heaven.” We shine so that others might come to know our God, so that they may shine and others come to know God and so on. That’s the ripple effect! And not just know Him as God, but as Father. A benevolent, protective, joyful God, whose people are just like Him. God switched on the light, let’s go shine it!
- What about Jesus’ words challenge you today?
- Think of three ways you could be a light today and go be a light!
Prayer
Pray in response to today’s reading.
Worship Song
You might use this song today to worship Jesus today:
Check out more Bible Reading Plans here.
Questions?
Ed Applegate
