We have stained glass windows at home.

They are one of my favourite features. Our home was built over a hundred years ago, and I think they are original from that time.

They’re beautiful. A panel of swirling shapes. Amber, lilac, sea-green.

I woke early this morning, and when I came into the living room the early light was muted and the stained glass dull.

Soon though, the sky turned pink. I sat with a cup of tea and watched as the sun rose beyond the trees. As it did, everything was filled with its brilliant light.

The stained glass came to life.

Minutes before the glass had been pretty but dull, but now it sparkled. As the light shone through, it was as if the glass was flecked with jewels; amethysts and emeralds and gold. Dazzling. Beautiful.

It made me think about what Jesus said about us. “You are the light of the world. A city 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 men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” Matthew 5:14-16.

We have Jesus, the Light of the World, living in our hearts. Our lives have been touched by His light; lit up by Him. In His light, we come alive with colour and vibrancy; we shine.

But have we put this light under a bowl? Do we hide His light that is in us? Or do we allow it to shine before men for God’s glory?

Let’s be radiant for God. Let’s stand in His light and then be bearers of it, so that others might see and believe.