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.
—Matthew 5:16
Most everyone has a hero or heroine of some kind while growing up. Adolescents look to their hero to shape and inform their lives in some meaningful way before they become young adults. A child’s most admired model has a significant amount of power to influence and even transform their personality, religion, and political views. This is why the choice of an appropriate hero or heroine at that formative age is so crucial.
Role models can be exuberant and shining lights of knowledge and wisdom that young adults aspire to mirror. So careful thought should be taken when trying to choose a favorable candidate for the job. As adults, we all have the possibility of being that hero or heroine. When we display ourselves as modest examples of hope and holy living, we become models for children and adults alike.
“Let your light shine,” Jesus said. Let it shine as far as the east is from the west. Let it shine so that others who hear your words or see your actions may find their own lives uplifted or transformed. It can seem a daunting responsibility to think that you may be another person’s hero or heroine.
Yet, the ultimate trust is not in us, but in God; the same God who gave us the gifts to arouse and encourage others. God is the real hero, the real heroine who gives life to us all.
Gracious God, let our light shine through the darkest hour of the day so our steps may create a path for someone else.
Copyright 2009 Cleophes Carter, Jr.
