“You are the light of the world…let your light shine before men” John 5:16
Someone told me that we influence at least 250 people during our lifetime. (I was told this number was chosen because this is how many people usually show up at a funeral.) Today, with the Internet connecting us with more people, I believe our influence is much greater.
I recently watched a true story video called, Paradise Road. It told of a woman who used her influence and training to give a group of women hope, courage, peace, unity and a reason to keep living.
The women were prisoners of war. They came from diverse backgrounds – high society and farmers. They were from different countries. At first they didn’t trust each other, but as life became more difficult for them, they began to work together.
God used one woman in an amazing way. With her music and organizational abilities, she united the women to form an orchestra and patiently taught them how to use their voices to sound like instruments. Soon they were able to create a beautiful concert.
She gave them something beautiful to focus on besides their own misery and their horrific surroundings. Every day women died at the hands of their captors or from disease, but the group was able to keep going because of her courage.
There were, of course, some women who wouldn’t join the choir and watched from afar, but most followed her.
Over half the women in the choir died. One day, when they were having yet another funeral procession, one of the guards asked her, “Where is your choir now?”
Instead of letting his remark discourage her, she picked up two rocks and began banging out a rhythm. Soon others followed her example, using sticks, shoes – whatever they could find. They were an orchestra again and were encouraged. Even those who usually sat and watched joined in the music.
Finally the war was over and they were set free. This woman had given them hope, courage, and even joy by inspiring them to make something beautiful in dire circumstances.
You are like this woman when Jesus Christ controls your life,
“You shine like stars…as you hold out the word of life” (Philippians 2:15).
You help women see something beautiful in life, no matter the circumstances. You are the light of the world.
Think for a moment about the people you influence. The ones you meet at your local coffee shop, the grocery store, clothing store and online, as well as your neighbors, coworkers, church and family. God can use you to help introduce people you know to Christ, the One who brings light into our souls and eyes. Why not point them to the gospel in the related article below.
Father of light, we thank You that You place joy, hope, light and a reason to keep living in our hearts. Give us the courage to spread that light to everyone with whom we come into contact. Amen.
By Katherine Kehler
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• Shine Like the Sun – by Bill Bright
• Let God’s Light Through – by Darren Hewer
• Candle Burning Bright – by Vonette Bright
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