Chapter 117—A Light to Shine
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen
upon thee.
Isaiah 60:1
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Through the social relations, Christianity comes in contact with the world.
Everyone who has received the divine illumination is to brighten the pathway
of those who know not the Light of life.... Social power, sanctified by the
grace of Christ, must be improved in winning souls to the Saviour. Let the
world see that we are not selfishly absorbed in our own interests, but that
we desire others to share our blessings and privileges. Let them see that our
religion does not make us unsympathetic or exacting. Let all who profess to
have found Christ, minister as He did for the benefit of men.
We should never give to the world the false impression that Christians
are a gloomy, unhappy people. If our eyes are fixed on Jesus, we shall
see a compassionate Redeemer, and shall catch light from His countenance.
Wherever His Spirit reigns, there peace abides. And there will be joy also,
for there is a calm, holy trust in God.
Christ is pleased with His followers when they show that, though human,
they are partakers of the divine nature. They are not statues, but living men
and women. Their hearts, refreshed by the dews of divine grace, open and
expand to the Sun of Righteousness. The light that shines upon them they
reflect upon others in works that are luminous with the love of Christ.
The confession of faith made by saints and martyrs was recorded for the
benefit of succeeding generations. Those living examples of holiness and
steadfast integrity have come down to inspire courage in those who are now
called to stand as witnesses for God. They received grace and truth, not
for themselves alone, but that, through them, the knowledge of God might
enlighten the earth. Has God given light to His servants in this generation?
Then they should let it shine forth to the world.
We are to be channels through which the Lord can send light and grace
to the world.... The entire church, acting as one, blending in perfect union, is
to be a living, active missionary agency, moved and controlled by the Holy
Spirit.
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