Let Your Light Shine

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 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. 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 NIV).

When I was in college, one of my classes required us to memorize chapters 5-7, word for word, from the Gospel of Matthew. While memorizing these chapters, I attempted to embrace what Jesus was actually saying. I attempted to research the audience He was speaking to, which included the cultural and historical setting also. I was reminded of these verses today as I walked through Harter House, just trying to buy some eggs.

As I walked through aisle after aisle, it was difficult to get around the store. Everyone was trying to remain the prescribed "6-foot" distance, while also trying to get as many items as needed before everything was gone. I could also tell people were trying not to look "panicked" or too needy. At the same time, no one was really looking at anyone else in the eye, and the normal "social etiquette" seemed to be lacking. Until I needed dried beans and my arms were full.

A sweet elderly woman could see I was looking for something, but we were both trying to keep our distance. I looked up, and she smiled. I smiled back, and we actually made eye contact. I realized that this was the first person to make eye contact with me since I walked in the door.

The woman then said, "Can I help you with something, hon?" The thing was, she wasn't an employee, and she had a few items in her own arms. She could see my arms were very full, but that was only because I wasn't smart enough to grab a cart before entering the building.

I quickly replied, "Oh, no. Thank you! I appreciate you asking, though." I then kind of turned away.

She then said, "Well, what are you looking for? Maybe I could help."

I then hesitantly replied, "I'm actually just looking for some dried beans, but I don't think there are any."

The woman then got a huge smile on her face and said, "Well, sweetie, they're right over there." She then pointed down at two bags of red kidney beans, and said, "Well, I'm sorry, those are kidney beans. What kind you looking for? We've got slim pickings these days."

At that moment, another elderly woman was passing by and overheard the conversation. She stopped her cart and got down on her knees. I was instantly embarrassed, concerned, but she was so quick I couldn't stop her. She started digging under the bottom shelf, which looked empty. She almost made it all the way inside the shelf, before she pulled out two bags of small white beans. She then looked up at me, handed them to me and smiled, "Here, try these. They're the only ones left. They're very good with ham." She had a twinkle in her eye as she looked up at me. Tears came to my eyes.

I recognized in that moment, the two people I had interacted with are the two people who should probably remain as distant as possible. They were at high risk of contracting and becoming seriously ill from the virus. They were also the only two people who had added some "light" to a somewhat dark situation. I carefully took the beans from the woman's hand, out of respect and concern for her, and thanked her for her help. She got back up off of her knees and said, "Take care of yourself, sweetheart." I returned the kind words and smiled back. Both ladies wished me well and we went our separate ways.

What does it look like to let your light shine in the darkness? These two women let their light shine through a smile, a helping hand and kind eyes. I had failed to let my light shine. I had failed to be the teacher in the moment, not the student. I realized that I have the opportunity to be a light in this darkness for those who need it most.

Most of us are laying low and remaining out of public, but we still have to go out for essential items. We still have to interact with people on the phone, the internet and in public. When we go out, most people feel the oppression of this situation in a very real way. In this historical moment, people of faith and disciples of our Lord, Jesus, have a unique opportunity to put into full force the commands Jesus has given us in His Word.

The next time you're out, let your light shine. Smile at those around you. Make eye contact. Offer a helping hand, and do something kind and unexpected. Be safe and wise, but do not fear, because the Lord is with you. I love you all. Goodnight.