Daily Devotion

Saturday, March 22, 2026  

Today's Scripture
Matthew 5:16

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.

Reflection

Although inspiring and hopeful in its language, Jesus’ instruction that his followers’ lives should “shine before others” feels strangely discordant with later sections of the Sermon on the Mount — particularly Matthew 6:1–18, which emphasizes his followers must give, pray, and fast in secret. How do we shine without showing off? How do we share light without falling into the trap of believing it belongs to us?

When I was growing up, one of the most faithful members of my church was also one of the quietest. His work around the church was largely hidden from others’ sight, and yet his woodworking projects were used by kids throughout our Sunday School; he would give time behind the scenes to run our AV system; and he was the first to raise his hand whenever a volunteer was needed. He wasn’t a flashy person — someone you’d associate with the word “shine” — and yet his simple, humble acts of service said more about Christ’s love than anything he could have said.

We often assume the early church grew solely because of preachers like Peter and Paul, but many have come to believe that the church’s growth had just as much to do (if not more) with the communities of support and care that were built, and that people were astonished at just how transformed the lives of these early Christ followers were.

How do we shine without showing off? “Preach the Gospel at all times,” Saint Francis of Assisi allegedly once counseled, “but use words only when necessary.” May our lives bear witness to Christ’s love in all that we are, say, and do — for, in doing so, we help make Christ’s light all the more visible in our world.

Prayer

God of light and love, may my life preach your good news at all times — using words only when necessary. Amen.

Written by Matt Helms, Associate Pastor for Children and Family Ministry of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

Devotion index by date | I’d like to receive daily devotions by email