This Little Light of Mine
When I meet a new person in public or a new neighbor, the most uncomfortable question that I get asked is, “What do you do?” This is a problem because when you meet someone new, the vocation question is typically the second or third question that is asked! And, I wouldn’t blame you if you are a little confused or surprised by my confession. Here’s why it is an uncomfortable question.
When I tell someone (outside of church) that I am a pastor, it is most often received with a degree of suspicion and distrust. When I first started in ministry sixteen years ago, being a pastor was something that garnered support, even from non-religious people. Then, I noticed it was met with a degree of neutrality. That is, it wasn’t thought of positively or negatively; it was just neutral. But now, it definitely isn’t neutral, and often it brings negative associations. So, I find myself trying to explain what I do in a way that doesn’t elicit those reactions. However, I often reflect, am I trying to be winsome, or am I hiding my light?
See, we sing to our kids at bedtime, and a favorite is Little Light of Mine. That song talks about not letting your light (the hope of Jesus) be hidden under a bushel; instead, we are to let our light shine. Jesus said something about that in Matthew 5:13-16.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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 who is in heaven.
Jesus reminds us of a simple but powerful truth, a light that is lit but hidden does no good for anyone. Yes, our light might provoke persecution, but that is no reason for hiding the light others may see and by which they may come to glorify the Father—the disciples’ only motive (cf. 2 Cor 4:6; 1 Peter 2:12). [1]
Paul serves as an example of this for us. In Acts 26:29, he honestly and directly answers Agrippa’s question if Paul is trying to convert him (let me paraphrase), “Yes, yes I do want to you to be just like me and know the hope that Jesus brings.” Paul’s example reminds us that a light that is hidden does no good for anyone.
Yes, I am all for winsomely shining my light. Paul was too. So, I’ve come to become more comfortable with those uncomfortable moments when people find out what I do.
Why? Because it affords me the opportunity to shine my light and talk about the real difference Jesus has made in my life and the lives of others.
This little light of mine … I’m going to let it shine.
All around the neighborhood … I’m going to let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No! … I’m going to let it shine
[1] D. A. Carson, 140.