“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 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. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

 This morning, I read in one of my devotionals about a married couple who participated in a walking event. At one point they sat down to rest, when another couple joined them. Through their conversation both couples shared a horrific event where they lost a young child, and were able to explain how they got through the loss by what God did to strengthen their faith. For two strangers to get that deep into conversation, they had to be transparent, peeling back the layers of their life, to share one of the darkest moments they’ve ever experienced.

 In today’s world, people frequently “build walls” around themselves. They feel this protects them from emotional damage, and getting involved with others, when all they want to do is live their life. This behavior isolates self from the outside world and misses opportunities to share insight into the wonderful and not so wonderful things experienced.

 If you know me, I am one who loves to meet people and peel back their layers of information to know them better. I find it challenging for me to see how deep into their life I can explore in my attempts to connect through life’s experiences. And what I’ve found is some pretty amazing people and their stories have encouraged me in my personal and spiritual life.

 Wrapping this blog up with today’s verses. If you are a child of God, He’s given you something special, the gift of eternal life, forgiveness of sins, and a love that comes with NO conditions. Those unique characteristics should be shared with those in your circle of influence. Lighting up your world with the Gospel message of salvation brings hope to the hopeless, love to the unloved, and the removal of guilty burdens often found deep within their soul. Don’t hide your faith, don’t put your light under a bowl, let it shine brightly through your daily interactions with others. You’ll be amazed at how your interactions turn positive, no matter what environment you find yourself. Let your light shine for the glory of God!