Shining the Light: A Reflection from the Gospel of John
On 9th January 2016, our Jurong West CG started the year by studying the Gospel of John, Chapter 1. During our time together, we talked about two big questions:
- What is the meaning of the Christian faith?
- What has been the impact of the Gospel in the world?
What is Our Christian Faith?
According to the Gospel of John, the Christian faith is primarily believing in Jesus as the Son of God, the Christ, so that you may have eternal life. (John 20:31) It’s not just an idea but a personal, wholehearted trust and acceptance of Jesus, which leads to a transformative relationship with God. (John 1:12; 3:16)
The Gospel is a Living Light
In John 1:5, it says: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Today, the “darkness” can feel very heavy. We hear about wars, disasters, and families losing everything. It is easy to feel helpless. But the Gospel calls us to act. It calls us to be like the Good Samaritan – helping anyone in need, no matter who they are.
The impact of the Gospel is seen whenever people choose love over doing nothing:
- Helping Globally: Large groups like World Vision provide food and safety during crises. They show mercy to everyone, regardless of their background, because that is what Jesus taught.
- Fighting for Justice: We believe every person is made in the image of God (Imago Dei). Because of this, Christian groups work to end poverty and human trafficking, making sure every person is treated with dignity.
A Light in Singapore: LCCS
We don’t have to look far to see this light. Right here in Singapore, Lutheran Community Care Services (LCCS) acts like the Good Samaritan.
LCCS helps people who are often forgotten – youths facing trouble, families in conflict, and people who are hurting emotionally. They focus on “restorative practices,” which is a way of helping people fix broken relationships. They sit with people in their darkest moments and remind them: “You are not alone. You have value.”
The Connection: Our Faith and the Gospel Light
Our faith and the Gospel light are linked together. When we put our personal trust in Jesus (our faith), His Spirit begins to live in us. We then become the “lamps” that carry His living light (the Gospel) into the dark places. We don’t just believe in the light; we become part of how God shines that light on others.
Our Calling
The darkness in the world is real, but it is not stronger than the light of Christ. Every time you show kindness to a neighbour or support a group like LCCS, you are helping that light shine brighter.
A Prayer
“Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Light that the darkness cannot overcome. Open my eyes this week to see the people around me who are hurting or lonely. Give me a heart like the Good Samaritan and use my hands to bring Your comfort and peace to others. Amen.”
Responses