City on a Hill

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: November 18, 2024

Scripture: "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden." - Matthew 5:14 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts

Imagine standing in a vast, dark valley, looking up to see a city on a hill glowing brightly. It draws your attention, stands out in the darkness, and serves as a beacon of hope. Jesus calls us to be like that city—unhidden, bright, and guiding others towards Him. Just as a city on a hill cannot be concealed because its light radiates outward, so too are we meant to shine, to live in such a way that we illuminate the love of God for everyone around us.

Being a city on a hill means being visible, even when it is not convenient. It means standing firm in your values and reflecting the light of Christ, especially in a world that often seems dark and hopeless. The light within you—the presence of God—is not to be kept secret. Instead, you are to be an example, living in such a way that others see God's goodness through your words and actions.

Often, we might feel like blending in or hiding our faith to avoid drawing attention. Yet Jesus encourages us to embrace our role, to let our light shine. Just like a lamp is placed on a stand to give light to everyone in the house, our lives should radiate the love, grace, and truth of God to those around us. This doesn’t mean being perfect but being real and allowing God to work through us. We are called to illuminate—to make known the hope we have found in Jesus.

In my previous job, a colleague approached me and asked if we could go to a restaurant. When we got there, he shared that his wife was battling cancer and asked me to pray with him. He saw something different in me that gave him the courage to ask for prayer. Do not hide your faith, even in environments that discourage it. 

Practical Reflection

Think about areas in your life where you might be tempted to hide your light. Is it in conversations with friends, at work, or within your family? Challenge yourself to take a step forward and let your light shine in these spaces. It could be through an encouraging word, a helping hand, or sharing your story of God’s work in your life.

Being a city on a hill also means being a source of hope for others. Who in your life needs that hope? Ask God to use you as His beacon to those who are struggling so that they might see Him through your love and kindness.

Closing Thoughts

God has strategically placed you in your community, workplace, and family to be a light. You are not where you are by accident. Just like a city on a hill, God has positioned you to be a visible reflection of His love and grace. Choose to shine brightly today, knowing that as you do, others are drawn to the light of Christ within you.

Prayer

Father, thank You for calling me to be a light in this world. Help me to shine brightly, to be unafraid of standing out for You. Let my actions and words point others towards Your goodness and love. Use me, Lord, as Your beacon of hope, that many may see Your light through me. Amen.