Devotion of the Week
January 15, 2005
By: Arnold Hammons, Pastor
Loyall United Methodist Church
Loyall, Kentucky

STAYING PLUGGED IN

Matthew 5:14

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.

The simplicity of turning a switch on for the convenience of lighting has made modern day living very luxrious. We often times take this for granted not fully realizing what is required for the ease of lighting. Understanding what takes place in order to provide the power source up to wall outlet encourages us to give thanks to those who labor so hard by the sweat of their brow. Lighting as we enjoy requires a source to be plugged into. Once plugged in, the switch is turned on and our life enjoys the light that shines. With this convenience, comes the responsibility of keeping the light plugged in. Though the power source is always available, the light will not shine unless it is plugged in. This simple analogy describes our spiritual life as Jesus Christ speaks to us as disciples, "You are the light of the world." Jesus has labored by the sweat of his brow and paid the price at Calvary to become our power source for life eternal. Again, the responsibility is ours to stay plugged in to Christ for our light to shine forth and be as the city set on a hill. The switch we turn on is the surrender of our will to abide in His will. Stay plugged in and keep your lamp on the lampstand, as it will give light to all who are in the house.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the source of light that you have made available to all of us. We know that darkness is the absence of light and as each new day brings opportunities and challenges, help us to stay plugged in that our light will simply be a reflection of your light. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.