Light of the World (Download)
Throughout the scriptures, Christ (and others) refers to himself as the Light of the World. This analogy helps us to consider deeply his influence and effect on our lives. Many times we are aware of that influence, but not always and not everyone. We know that all of us are born with the light of Christ, some refer to that as our conscience. It is the light which is in all things and which gives life. Jesus tells us that we are also the light of the world and that we should let our light shine. How do we gain our light and power? How can we be a light to the world ? What does it mean to hide our light under a bushel?
How are the following examples similar to the Light of Christ? Use the pictures to help your family or class discuss how the light of Christ relates to different sources of light in our lives. Allow family members or class members to elaborate on the analogies and add their own connections and ideas.
Flashlight
- Needs batteries: How can we re-charge our own light so that we don’t “run out” of energy?
- Good to use during a power outage: Are there times when our own light needs to shine extra bright during a spiritual “power outage?”
Candle
- Shares it’s light equally with everyone who comes near it: Can everyone who comes in our presence feel the light of Christ or is it available to only a few?
- Even when you can’t see the light, you can feel it’s warmth.
Sun
- Provides life, light and energy to the entire world. How is this like the Light of Christ?
Light in a home
- Someone needs to flip the switch to turn this light on. What can we do to turn the Light of Christ on in our home?
An Atom
- Scientists have recently discovered that every time an electron jumps from one shell to another, it releases a photon, a speck of light! Every cell in our body literally contains light! Older children and adults may find some comfort in comparing the light that develops within each cell, and the light of Christ.