Like A Firefly

 

DAILY VITAMIN

- Like A Firefly

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16 CSB)

What makes a Firefly so special? 

Its fluorescence. Its ability to be spotted amidst darkness unaided. And most times a sparkle of fireflies can be enough illumination to find our way through dark paths. In other words, they help us see what on our own we might not have.

In the same vein, you are sort of like a Firefly. Because you were designed to show light in the dark. At least that's who you were meant to be. Jesus in John 8:12 says He is the light of the world and those who follow Him never stumble into darkness. And then in Matthew 5:14 says we are exactly the same. Lights; confirming John's words that as He is eternally so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). Yet in all this Jesus still insinuates that being a thing isn't enough except we act like it (Matthew 5:15). See also Ephesians 5:8. So we aren't just lights of the world per description, we must be lights per demonstration. Like a Firefly. 

It's in the Firefly's DNA to fluoresce. It is its nature. Its enzymes were designed to synthesize this glowing property; but what makes men recognize this beautiful creature is that it functions as designed. Because a Firefly without its glow is just another simple insect; for it is its light that makes it unique. Such that even in the rankest darkness, they easily exist as simple but phenomenal mobile stars in their own little galaxies. And so we give them all of our attention in that little moment of pure bliss. Furthermore, remember that no one gives attention to what can be easily ignored. That's why none of us can ignore them -- because they're right there in our faces in their splendor.

That's the way Jesus calls us to live. Right in the faces of the people of this world. 

Therefore, let your character and behavior be so divine and inspiring that it never goes unnoticed. Be the reason for someone to glance up with a smile even when all there is around them is darkness. That's what Isaiah meant when he prophesied: Arise and shine, for your light is here. Though darkness covers the earth and gross darkness its people, but toward your light shall men gather (see Isaiah 60:1-3). This is the path God has chosen for us -- to be beacons of His glory, so that others may find Him through us (Zechariah 8:21-23). 

And recall that the light already resides in you. It's risen upon you. How? In His light we found ours (Psalm 36:9). Your being in Christ gives you a share in His light. Light enough to lit up the whole world. Hence, use your light, illuminate your surrounding. Start right there where you are, right now. At work or at home, or maybe you're simply walking down the street. Show your light, even now. Be the reason people around you can brave a smile this season. Show them the love Christ has for them, because that's what you were designed to do. 

Thus, like a Firefly, let your light shine even in the dark.