Children of Light: How to Live Your New IdentitySample

When You Know Who You Are, You Know What To Do

Jesus is the Light of the World and He’s inviting us to become like Him. He’s given us a new identity—children of light. And because we have a new identity, we also have a new way of showing up in the world. We live as children of light, copying Jesus and taking the light of life to dark places.

“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

Jesus is drawing connections to Old Testament ideas about the people of God being a “light to the nations.” The way that they served God and cared for people was always meant to show the world the heart of God. But, they missed the mark. Thankfully, Jesus did not. He was the Light of the World who perfectly represented who God is and what He’s like to the whole world. And instead of saying, “No worries, I’ve got it from here,” He gave us His light and taught us how to fulfill our purpose.

As disciples of Jesus—people in the process of becoming like Jesus so we can better love God and others—we are the light of the world. Jesus has called us to become what He already is.

Here’s something you already know about light that’s worth calling attention to (because, well, Jesus does): It’s visible. That’s the picture Jesus is painting with a town on a hill and a lamp on a stand. When Jesus gives us His light and His light in us is not visible to others, we are missing the point. Our lives are supposed to help people see who God is and what He’s like! That’s a special assignment.

Because our identity informs our activity, we become a city on a hill, a beacon of hope and safety to friends, family members, and strangers who are worn out and anxious about the future. We become a lamp on a stand, exposing things for what they are and helping people see what they couldn’t see before—that there is a way to life, freedom, and joy, and His name is Jesus!

There’s a rescue mission taking place. One where the children of light go into the dark to seek and save the lost, just like their King does. Will you join Him?

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light … Ephesians 5:8 NIV

Journal/Pray: Who do you know that needs hope? How are you living in your identity as the light of the world in that person’s life? How about in general? Does your identity as a child of light change the way you live? How will you join Jesus’ mission to bring hope and healing to the world today?

Prayer: Jesus, thank You for seeking me out and saving me! You’ve invited me to become like You and play a part in Your good plans to bring hope and healing to the world. I want to join that mission. Give me boldness to carry Your light into the dark. Help me to seek out the people in my life who are hurting and hopeless and share Your good news with them. Amen.