Jesus in Matthew 5:14-16 referred to His followers as Lights in this dark world, set upon a hill (such a strategic position) which cannot be hid, placed upon a candlestick which gives light to all around. Phil. 2:14-16 showed us that in the midst of crookedness and perversion, we are to illuminate the light of Christ in us. We will take some cues from this structure called Lighthouse to see how we can effectively shine this light of Christ.
THE ROLE & SYMBOLISM OF A LIGHT HOUSE The term ‘Lighthouse’ is one that most of us are familiar with, probably have never seen one in reality but pictures online and movies have given us an idea of what the structure looks like and to some extent, its mode of operation. Wherever a lighthouse is seen, it represents an iconic symbol of guidance, safety, security and stability, standing tall against the fury of the sea and shining its light into the darkness. These structures have been around for hundreds of years, providing valuable guidance for ships, sailors, and mariners in treacherous waters.
STRUCTURE AND OPERATION OF A LIGHT HOUSE A lighthouse is a tower topped with a very bright light called a beacon, designed to emit light from a high place so as to aid the navigation of maritime pilots at sea or while on inland waterways. It sends out a warning light of dangers nearby so that ships and sailors could pass on and arrive home safely. The lighthouse is not the light but holds up the light (likened to a giant candlestick) and powerfully projects it to the farthest reaches and it is usually situated high up on a Hill.
IMPORTANCE OF THE LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER The mode of operation of a lighthouse follows a very simple system. It has a light at the top with oil or electricity to power the light. A clear protective outer glass surrounds the light so that the storm does not extinguish the light, with a glass lens around the light that focuses the light in one direction, making it very bright, then a platform that turns the light in all directions. It is worthy to note that the most important part of the Lighthouse is the LIGHT. Without its light, it is completely worthless because the needed signals cannot be sent out during stormy, dangerous weathers. For every Lighthouse, there is a lighthouse keeper. It is the responsibility of the keeper to ensure that the light burns from sunset till sunrise, shining the brass, polishing the lamps and lenses, trimming the wick, filling the oil, checking the flame amongst other responsibilities.
CHRISTIANS AS LIGHTHOUSES Having gone through all these descriptions a Christian can be likened to a lighthouse. As Christians that have been set upon the hill, we are not the light, we are magnifying lenses, those who bear witness to and shine forth the light of Christ so that people can arrive safely to the place of salvation because we can only warn and guide but only Jesus saves.
SHINING THE LIGHT OF CHRIST Just like the lighthouse, we have a Light powered by oil (Holy Spirit) with a platform (our purpose/ calling) through which this light shine in every direction. The most important part of this layout is the Light that we shine forth because this world is filled with darkness and needs rescuing. Every Christian is a lighthouse, a lighthouse keeper and Christ is the light. So, it is our responsibility as keepers to make sure the fire continues to burn upon our altars until sunrise (when Jesus comes). Let us keep our testimonies clean at all times so that this light’s beam will not dim, avoid every appearance of evil and run with perseverance this race that is set before us so that many will be drawn to Christ. Let us ask God to daily fill us with the Holy Spirit as we spend time in the place of prayer and with the word because our brightness must be constantly replenished. The presence of the Holy Spirit grants us boldness to live out in the open, even high on a hill, preaching and teaching His word without fear or shame. CONCLUSION As we have been saved, it is God’s heart beat that others be saved too therefore children of God, shine forth this Light of Christ like a Lighthouse and the God of peace be with you.
TAKE CHARGE!!!
Nnakenyi Judith
