This is what God, the LORD, says – who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk on it – “I am the LORD. I have called you for a righteous purpose, and I will hold you by your hand. I will watch over you, and I will appoint you to be a covenant for the people and a light to the nations.” Isaiah 42:5-6 CSB

Our verse for today comes from Isaiah and is believed to have been written after Israel was conquered and taken into exile by the Babylonians. Chapter 42 is a prophecy of the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ. It reminds the people who God is and gives them hope that “God’s servant”, His “chosen one,” will bring justice for the exiles. Jesus is “called for a righteous purpose,” to be a new “covenant for the people,” and to be “a light to the nations.”

So, even though these verses actually describe our Lord and Savior, they are written for us, too. As Christians, Christ followers, we are called to this same “righteous purpose.” We are appointed to share the new covenant and to be a light to the nations. We are called to share our faith.

Consider how you already shine light and share your faith. Do you…

…teach children or young people in Sunday School?

…share photos that display the beauty of the Lord in His creation?

…preach and give insight into God’s word?

…sing praises in a choir?

…tell your story of God’s work in your own life?

…provide God’s word for those who don’t have?

…serve those in need?

…mentor young people?

…shine God’s love by loving others?

This week, let’s join Jesus and be a light to the nations, or at least to our community. Let’s fulfill our “righteous purpose.” What other ways do you shine the Lord’s light?

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me this week as we discover ways to share our faith and shine His light and fulfill our “righteous purpose.”

Blessings as shining lights!