31. Light of the world.

"You are the light of the world."(Matthew 5:14) This world is entering an unprecedented time of darkness and we who have come to know the truth are the light of the world. 'Arise, shine for your light has come and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you.'( Isaiah 60:1-2) What is said of the nation of Israel is true of the Church because they share a common destiny! However, both have been accused of wrong doing because 'not all who descended from Israel are Israel' (Romans 9:6) nor 'children born of natural descent' to Christians are Christians, 'but those born of God'(John 1:13). Therefore, we who are the light of the world ought to 'live such good lives among pagans that though they accuse us of doing wrong, they may see our good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.'( 2 Peter 2:12) "Let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."( Matthew 5:16)Amen