Living Out JusticeSample

Shine before others

‘“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”’ (Matthew 5:16, NIV)

Devotion:

Over the past three weeks, we have focused on living out justice. We have been challenged to consider perspectives that are different from our own, to selflessly serve our neighbour and to make a positive impact in our communities.

Now, on the final day of this devotional series, we read the instruction of Matthew 5:16. The light within us comes from the Lord and, as his followers, this is what we were created to do. Eugene H. Peterson, in The Message paraphrase, puts it like this: ‘You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavours of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? … You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colours in the world.’ (Matthew 5:13-14, The Message)

Reflect:

At the heart of this Scripture, and into Matthew 6:1-4, is an opportunity to look at our motives. Are you striving for people’s praise and commendation, or the reward of your heavenly Father? Are you doing good for personal glory or so that God can be glorified and his righteousness revealed?

When we see with eyes of compassion, all glory goes to God.

When we offer a helping hand, all glory goes to God.

When we serve our neighbour in love, all glory goes to God.

Rest:

As you rest in God’s presence today, consider the opportunities you have had to bear witness to God as you have served others by love.

Reflect on moments where you may have received a word of thanks or a grateful smile for your actions. In an act of worship and reverence, return each moment of appreciation and reciprocated kindness to the Lord: ‘You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.’ (Psalm 16:2, NIV)

As you do so, you may want to listen to worship music and exalt your own song of praise to God. Read Matthew 5:1-16 in full. Be filled with joy in God’s presence. Let your light shine.

Prayer:

Lord, may your light shine through me so that my actions reflect your love and bring glory to your holy name. Help me to serve others with compassion and confidence, honouring you in all I do. Amen.

Weekly check-in questions:

Reflect on the various ways you’ve lived out justice in the last week. Think about each day and the different experiences you have been invited to participate in.

• Can you remember the people you interacted with? Spend some time recollecting their reactions and their stories.
• How did these interactions shape, change or challenge you?
• Could any of these actions become part of your day-to-day life?