I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life. – John 8:12
Jesus loves analogies, similes, and metaphors. He uses these figures of speech to help His listeners–including us–grasp complex and lofty concepts, such as what it means to live in the Kingdom of God and be a Christian disciple. He gives us two metaphors for discipleship in Sunday’s Gospel passage: “You are the salt of the earth…you are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14).
For now, let’s focus on what it means to be the light of the world. Your first thought might be, “Jesus said that HE is the light of the world. How can both be true?” That is actually the key here: Jesus came to be the light and life of the world (John 1:4, 8:12). His light shines on the world through each one of His disciples. So both are true: He is the light that we bring to the world when we act with virtue and are motivated by love of God and neighbor. When you bring truth, goodness, and beauty to others, you are setting your light on a lampstand instead of keeping it hidden under a bushel basket (cf Matthew 5:15).
When you were baptized, you received a baptismal candle, which one of your godparents lit from the Easter candle. The Easter candle represents the light of Christ. The light you shine is not your own; it comes from the Lord. This is the light of life, the grace that God pours into our hearts to light us from the inside.
Jesus says if we follow Him as His disciples that we “will have the light of life” (John 8:12). The light of Christ’s life is burning inside of us, helping us act virtuously and avoid sin. It is the light of faith that dispels the fog of unbelief. It shines inside us as hope in dark situations. It helps us to think, speak, and act with charity, spreading the love of God to all.
Jesus, be the light shining inside me to others. Bless me with the virtues of faith, hope, and love. Help me burn brightly for Your glory!