Flickering Fireflies

Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16

The evening was cool and clear. The earthy smell of the forest filled the air, and stars shone brightly through the trees. A group of boys and their teacher lingered around the dying campfire at their youth group retreat. “Wow!” Malachi said, craning his head back. “The stars are really bright tonight.”

Isaac looked up toward the sky. “They just look brighter because there are no other lights around,” he said. “They stand out more against the darkness.”

“I see a firefly,” said Malachi. “Look! Over there.” He pointed toward a tree a few feet away from the fire. The light of the firefly flickered in an on-and-off pattern.

“Maybe he’s sending a message in Morse code,” Isaac said. “Quick, Malachi, figure out what he’s trying to say.” The boys laughed as they watched the firefly blink on and off.

Mr. Sidney, their teacher, looked thoughtful. “Fireflies are amazing little creatures,” he said, “and they have a good lesson to teach us as Christians. Can you guess what it might be?”

The boys were silent for a moment. “I know!” said Isaac. “That we need to let our lights shine for Jesus.”

“Yeah,” said Malachi, “but not like fireflies do.”

“Why not?” asked Mr. Sidney.

“Because whenever our lights are shining, they help draw others to Jesus. So we want them to shine all the time, not flicker on and off.”

Mr. Sidney nodded. “Good thinking. What things might keep our lights from shining?”

“I think our lights flicker when we’re unkind or selfish or do things we know are wrong,” Isaac said quietly. “Like lying to our parents or cheating on a test.”

“Or saying something mean to someone,” added Malachi.

“You’re right,” said Mr. Sidney. “Doing things like that doesn’t show others who Jesus is and how He’s changed us.”

“So how can we keep our lights for Jesus from flickering?” asked Isaac.

“By reminding ourselves of all Jesus has done for us and depending on Him to help us obey Him and show others His love,” said Mr. Sidney. “Let’s rely on Him to help us shine brightly as steady lights in the darkness.” – Linda J. Dahlin

How About You?

Does your light for Jesus shine all the time, or does it flicker on and off? Do you consistently treat others with kindness, or only if they’re your friends or you’re in a good mood? Your words and actions affect how other people see you, and Jesus wants you to live in a way that draws others to Him. Let His light shine through you so others will see it and want to know Him too.

Today’s Key Verse:
Matthew 5:16 Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Be a steady light for Jesus