Matthew 5:14-16

You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

You are the light of the world. Jesus is giving his listeners a status that would normally be reserved for the powerful and wealthy leaders of his day. It’s part of the way that Jesus is constantly overturning priorities and expectations. Matthew’s church was feeling very timid encountering opposition from both Jews and Greeks. He reminds them of Jesus’ words that we can’t hide this light away. The light that everyone needs is ours to share. For Jesus the light is a naked flame. It needs air to burn. If it’s smothered it’s either lost or it sets it’s container on fire. Our lives are the evidence that Jesus is alive and acting in our world.