You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth). . . .

— Ephesians 5:8-9

For a few years we rented a small fourth-floor apartment in a five-story tenement in Manila, the Philippines. Jason, the building manager, was a follower of Jesus. He led adult Sunday school classes in his church at times, and because I was a seminary teacher he would sometimes ask me for help in planning his lessons.

During our stay there, we had a problem with the occupants above us. I don’t even remember what the problem was, but I can’t forget Jason’s response when I asked for his advice. He said, “We have to be careful how we handle this. We are God’s light in this place. Let’s not be confrontational.” With that advice, we were able to talk cordially with our neighbor and resolve the matter.

Jason’s words “We are God’s light in this place” remind me of Paul’s words in our Bible passage today. I am also reminded that Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. . . . Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16). Knowing that we are God’s agents in this world can transform our lives and our relationships. Living “as children of light,” we can shine God’s light into the darkness in the world around us.

How will you shine the light of Christ to others today?

Lord, keep us from sin and make your light in us shine brightly in this dark world—for your glory and as a witness to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.