Lights in our communities

Jesus said, "you are the Light of the world.  A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."  Matthew 5:14

There is an important truth that Jesus makes in this verse which often goes overlooked.  God has lifted up His Church and set His people so that they can be seen.  The Lord has build the Church and lifted it up on the hill.  Why did God do this?  He did it so that the Church and the local congregation can be seen.  He did it so that the congregation can live in God's grace and mercy and be an example to the community.
In the verse that follows, Jesus talks about an historical truth that happened with God's chosen people, past and present.  Instead of shining the light, the Church hides the Gospel under a bushel.  The people of God keep God's riches to themselves.  Afraid of the darkness around them, the people of God build walls around them so that they may be kept safe.
But remember who we are.  We are the light of the world.  We are that light because we walk in the footsteps of Jesus who is the light of the world, and whoever follows him will not walk in darkness but have the light of life.  Darkness is not something that needs to paralyze the people of God with fear.  Light by its very nature overcomes darkness.  Light gives security, warmth, and life.  It is something this dark world needs. 
Take off your sunglasses and bask in the glory of God's marvellous light.  Remove the bushel and shine the Light of the Gospel.  The Lord has lifted up His people.  He has called us to be the people of God.  We are to be Christ in this world and all because that is who God made us to be.