The Sound of Light
Did you know that lightning doesn’t make a sound? The sound of thunder comes from the surrounding area being displaced by lightning. The sound is essentially chasing after the lightning. Reflecting on this, our sounds should be chasing after the Light. We should be letting God guide us in what to say and how to minister. Just as thunder follows lightning, our actions should echo the light we emit. We’re not called to merely shout from rooftops but to let God’s light precede us, illuminating even the darkest corners.
When lightning hits sand, it creates glass. Sure, that’s a movie reference, but it’s also a true phenomenon. It creates something called Fulgurite glass. It’s a new thing. A similar thing happens for when the light of God hits us. It also creates a new thing.
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.
2 Corinthians 5:17
Through Christ, we have become a new creation. The light is turning us into something different, unique, one of a kind, and more importantly, something different than we expected. The light of God is a powerful thing that requires us to change if we truly expect to reflect His light.
Stars
Recently, astronomers made an incredible discovery: the furthest star known to date. Its name, WHL0137LS, might not roll off the tongue, but it certainly catches the eye. They nicknamed it Earendel, which adds a touch of whimsy to its cosmic identity. Earendel sits an astonishing 28 billion light years away from Earth, residing within the breathtaking Sunrise Arc galaxy. It’s a picturesque name for a galaxy, isn’t it?
As we gaze upon the distant beauty of the Sunrise Arc galaxy, it’s easy to feel insignificant. We may think, “What’s the point of studying these distant stars if we can never reach them?” Yet, in that tiny, distant dot of light, history is being made. Earendel holds the title of the furthest star we’ve observed. The only reason we know about it is because its light is traveling this far to reach us.
This begs the question: how far is your light still traveling? What impact are you making, and how long will it endure? We should aspire to leave a lasting legacy wherever we go. Whether it’s in our careers, our community, or any endeavor we undertake, we should want to leave behind a trail of light and love.
When we’re no longer present—whether it’s due to leaving a job, a place, or even this earthly existence—we should hope people remember us for the light we shared. Did we reflect the love of Christ in all we did? Did we leave a positive impression on those we encountered? Did we embody the principles of Christ’s kindness, compassion, and grace?
Much like Earendel’s distant light, our influence can continue to shine long after we’re gone. We possess the light of God within us, and it’s our duty to let it radiate brightly. Let’s commit to spreading His word, His love, and His light, ensuring that our legacy endures for years, days, and weeks to come.
Stray Light
In the realm of optics, there’s a term called “stray light.” It refers to light that infiltrates an optical system unintentionally, disrupting its intended design. Essentially, it’s light where it shouldn’t be. But have you ever considered that God might be calling you to be a stray light? Think about it. God calls us to be a light in the darkness.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:14-16
The idea of stray light is that light has ended up in a place that was meant to be in darkness. Perhaps you find yourself in a place that feels dark. Maybe it’s a relationship, a job, or an unexpected twist in your path. Yet, there you are, as a stray light, radiating God’s presence in spaces that were supposed to remain dark.
In every interaction, whether online or in person, we’re urged to let God’s light shine through. It’s not about religious accolades or the number of conversions we win over but about embodying His love and grace in every encounter.
Whether navigating virtual or physical spaces, remember to let your light shine and allow God to fill every space you inhabit.
Let’s embrace our role as stray light, bringing hope and illumination to a world in need. Together, let’s radiate God’s love and transform darkness into light.
To see more lessons from light, check out last week’s guest message: