Have you ever wondered or felt that there is more to why you are here on Earth? Everyone at some point or another has or will come across this question in their life. Well, let me be straight forward and simple in my answer: Yes, YOU have a great and significant purpose in being here on the Earth. You might be thinking, "okay, great. Someone who doesn't even know me, is saying that I have purpose. What does she mean by this?"
In the book of Matthew, chapter 5, we read of the Savior's Sermon on the Mount. Included in this chapter are several profound scriptures which tie in with who YOU are and why you are so important.
Matthew 5:14-16
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
You have the capability of doing good and the potential of accomplishing great things. We each have been given and blessed with the light of Christ. This is not a physical light that beams out from within us; rather it is felt and seen by the good works we do for others. The light of Christ is anything that is good and uplifting-- that causes us to change for the better, and become what He would have us be. I have the desire and need to share this light with others. My testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ and His Gospel is something I wish to share with all who come into my life.
Sometimes it can be difficult to express or share what I believe because I am doubtful of myself or worried about what others might think of me. This is one weakness that I have struggled with. I cringe when I hear the Lord's name used casually and in a crude manner by people whom I care about. Opening my mouth and saying, "Hey, can you please not say that? Jesus is my friend and His name is sacred", is SO hard for me. Yet then I am reminded of this scripture, (Matt. 5:14-16). Why would I hide or shun my beliefs just to be accepted and feel part of the norm? It takes faith to speak up, and courage to stand by what you firmly believe in--even if others may ridicule and laugh at you. This is something that I am slowly learning and hoping to do better with--and I can! I know that as I exercise faith in Jesus Christ, He will bless me and help me in these difficult situations. My purpose is to be a missionary and a light to those who struggle and are in need of a helping hand or uplifting/encouraging words.
What does it mean to be the light of the world? Why are we asked to let our light shine?
~Breanna
