“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16, NIV
One of my favorite things about Christmas trees is how much they remind me of the Christian life.
Here’s what I mean: my Christmas tree is far from perfect. Its branches are bent, and some spots are bare. It leans a little to one side, and it’s definitely smaller than I’d like. The needles are falling off, and no amount of garland, bulbs, or ribbon can truly hide its imperfections. Still, once the lights are plugged in, something beautiful happens. The glow transforms it. What was uneven and awkward becomes warm and lovely. Every Christmas tree, no matter how flawed, becomes beautiful when the lights are on.
And then there’s me: I haven’t grown perfectly straight either. I’m a little lopsided with some bare spots in my character. I didn’t get all the nurturing I needed early in life, and sometimes I still feel a bit “stumpy.” I try to dress myself up through serving, tithing, and giving, trying to look put together on the outside. But none of those things make me truly beautiful. The real transformation happens when the light of Jesus shines from within me. His presence fills all the uneven places, and suddenly, my whole life reflects His beauty.
That’s what I love about my brothers and sisters in Christ, too. It’s not their talents, generosity, or service. It’s the light of Jesus shining through them.
Christian educators, I encourage you to shine! Jesus is the reason for the season!
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the true light that shines in our darkness. Thank You for filling our imperfect lives with Your beauty, grace, and purpose. Help us to stop hiding behind our flaws or trying to decorate ourselves with good works alone. Instead, let Your light shine brightly within us so that others may see You in everything we do. Strengthen every Christian educator today—renew their joy, empower their calling, and let their lives reflect Your glory. In Your holy name, Amen.
Copyright Linda Bishop.
Linda is a Christian Educators member and special education teacher from Arizona.
