light and love

I think Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best---

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.  Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

As I was reflecting on his quote and everything he stood for today, I was drawn to the Word.

Jesus is the Light of the world.  His life brought an end to the darkness.  And the darkness can not overcome the Light.

"The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it."

~John 1:4-5 (NLT)



We are called to be the Light of the world, by allowing Jesus to shine through us.  We are called to share what God has done in our lives so that others will be drawn to Him. 

"Here's another way to put it: You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven."

~Matthew 5: 14-16 (MSG)

And here's the kicker...we are called to love one another.  Everyone.  Not some. Everyone.  We are called to love regardless of gender, age, height, weight, race, finances, education, medical history...and the list goes on and on and on.  We are called to love EVERYONE.   Everyone includes your family, friends, co-workers, those you serve and those that serve you, and our enemies.  Everyone. That is the only way others will know that we are a follower of Christ.  We must love everyone.



"I give you a new Law. You are to love each other. You must love each other as I have loved you.  If you love each other, all men will know you are My followers."

~John 13: 34-35  (NLV)

So, yes, I do believe that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was exact when he said,

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.  Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

May you all reflect on the great legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. today and in the days that follow.  May you claim it as truth that we are called to light and love.  May you start to reflect the Light in your life and begin to love everyone just as He loves you.