The Upper Room Daily Devotional Nashville, Tennessee, United States “Light for the World" for Tuesday, 3 February 2015 - Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16

The Upper Room Daily Devotional Nashville, Tennessee, United States “Light for the World" for Tuesday, 3 February 2015 - Scripture: Matthew 5: Salt and light
13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its saltiness, how will it become salty again? It’s good for nothing except to be thrown away and trampled under people’s feet. 14 You are the light of the world. A city on top of a hill can’t be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they put it on top of a lampstand, and it shines on all who are in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven.
You are the light of the world. A city on top of a hill can’t be hidden.[Matthew 5:14 (CEB)]
One morning I sat in my cozy upstairs room overlooking the river — the room where I spend time with God. As I read the scripture quoted above, I hoped and prayed that I could be a light to those I would meet and work with that day. Then I looked across the river and noticed a house that stood out from the others. It was bright and shining with a strong light. On looking more closely I could see that it was catching and reflecting the rays of the early-morning sun.
For me, that house was an example of how I could be a light in my world. By being open to the work of the Holy Spirit in me, I can reflect God’s light and love in the world. However, I can shine that light into the world only if my relationship with God is a priority. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). When we draw near to Jesus through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers, we can reflect this light to those who do not know him. When we are open and available to the light of Jesus, we — like beacons in a dark world — can shine his love on others.
Read more from the author, here.
"River of Life"
I am blessed to live in a beautiful and peaceful location overlooking the River Murray, which is the main source of water to the state where I live. South Australia is the driest state in Australia and water is a precious commodity. When the river is healthy it brings life to the land. The river is a wonderful place of activity with the many birds, the fish, the turtles, the plants and the people who enjoy recreational activities there. For me the river is a source of interest, enjoyment and inspiration and I am very thankful for the peace I feel as I look out at the river while spending time in my upstairs room during my times of morning devotion.
Thinking about the river I am reminded of the river of life we hear about in the Bible. There was a river in the Garden of Eden and then the river of life is shown to the prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 47; 1-12) and described again in Revelation (Revelation22; 1-5).  Jesus offers the woman at the well the life-giving water that will always satisfy (John 4; 13). As I picture this river of life I see it flowing from the throne of God. It’s crystal clear, fresh, bubbling, and life-giving. It’s a healing river and on its banks grow the trees with the leaves that are for the healing of the nations. This river gets deeper as it flows and it makes all things new and full of life.  Because of Jesus’ work on the cross I see this river flowing into our world and, through grace, available for all. We can immerse ourselves in its healing power, drink from its pure, fresh water and receive all the abundance and blessings that God has provided for us. Jesus is with us, his Holy Spirit is in us and the peace, joy, and love that is ours is immeasurable.
As I think on these truths and imagine myself wading into that river of life I am refreshed and renewed. As I see myself walking on its banks under those healing trees I receive healing and peace. Then hopefully the grace that is mine will flow out from me to others as I seek to serve my wonderful Father God and bring his light into the world. 
I pray that if you are thirsty and dry today, like I am at times, you might like to reflect on the life-giving water that Jesus offers us and imagine the river of life flowing into the world, into your country, into the room you are in, and all over you.[Ann Stewart]
The Author: Ann Stewart (South Australia, Australia)
Thought for the Day: How can I reflect the light of Jesus today?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the light Jesus brings into our lives. May we reflect his light in all we do today. Amen.
Prayer focus: Bible study groups
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