Don’t Let Yourself be Eclipsed

The recent total eclipse fascinated millions of people across the U.S. as it made its way from one corner of the country to the other. It truly was an interesting event to experience. In fact, many described the day/night phenomenon as being eerie. After all, it is not supposed to be dark when the sun is out. Cambridge Dictionary defines an eclipse as “a period of time when the light from an object in the sky cannot be seen because another object has come between you and it.” Thus, when the moon passed in between the sun and the earth, our ability to see its light was obstructed. As fascinating as this was, I couldn’t help but think of how this celestial event can connect to our lives as Christians.

During His “Sermon on the Mount” Jesus told those listening that, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14a). In a universe full of darkness, we are to be “light.” In different words, He would explain that such illumination cannot be hidden (5:14b). When something is lit, its purpose is not to be withheld, but to be used to help people see. Sometimes sin, worry, worldliness, etc. can prevent our light from shining as it should. You could say that such things obscure others’ view of our light.

Jesus would finish by giving the command to “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (5:16). We cannot allow anything to come between us (our light) and those who have the opportunity to see that light every day. When we do good, love others, and shine our light for all to see, they are getting to witness God and Christ through us. Therefore, may our light never be eclipsed, but let us strive to live a life of total illumination.