“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 NIV

A beautiful morning sunrise lights the sky and clouds! In the light you can see things more clearly.

Jesus tells us that He is the light of the world. He is the light for everyone who believes He is the Son of God and accepts Him as their savior. Jesus takes away our sins, those things we do that are not what God would want us to do (the darkness in our lives). Jesus forgives us and then gives us His light and His love and His peace.

As Christians (followers of Jesus Christ), we, too, can shine the light that Jesus has given us, to others. We can show the light of Jesus by how we treat other people. First, let’s think of words to describe how Jesus treated people so that we will know how to shine. I’ll get you started with a few.

How We Can Shine Like Jesus!

Love – Jesus loved all people and told everyone about God’s love for them.  We can accept the student at school (that no one seems to like) as loved by God and talk to him kindly.

Humbleness – Jesus did not act like He was better than others, He washed His disciples’ feet.  We can treat everyone we know as a unique creation of God. We are all valuable in Jesus’ eyes.

Gentleness – Jesus was gentle with children who were brought to Him, He loved and blessed them. We can be gentle with people. We can encourage them and tell them they are doing a great job and not criticize.

Kindness – Jesus was kind to people, even ones who had done many wrong things. We can be kind (friendly, generous, and considerate) to people we know who may not be kind to us.

Forgiveness – Jesus forgave the sins or wrongs of others in a caring, concerned way. He asked God to forgive the soldiers who put Him on the cross!  We can forgive a friend who has hurt our feelings or left us out.

When we try to treat others the way we think Jesus would, we are shining His light for all the world to see!

This week as you play or work or just talk with others, try to shine the light of Jesus by showing love, humbleness, gentleness, kindness and forgiveness just like Jesus. Talk with your parents about other words that describe Jesus and specific ways you can “shine” Jesus’ light for other people.

When we shine the light of Jesus, it will draw others closer to Him.

Blessings and happy shining!