14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)
City set on a hill in the Greek literally means a city that was strategically placed on a hill.
There were city planners and they were strategic about placing cities.
Jesus tells disciples they are the light and Jesus is strategically placing them to shine.
Today, we are disciples and placed strategically to love and be good to others.
We are an aroma to draw others to God and a light to shine to His love.
The same is true-in your office, apartment, or neighborhood. The guy next door is looking for Jesus. His life is a mess; maybe he drinks, cusses, and really needs Jesus. You were placed there to be a city on a hill so Shine!
Pastor Dave Wilson shared a story when he was driving in Florida and saw hitch hiker. He drove passed and wondered if the God was sending him to that guy. Dave sensed a nudge to go back and get the guy. Dave obeyed the nudge. The guy was a navy seal. Dave was scared to bring up Jesus. But the Holy Spirit wouldn’t let it go unsaid. Dave finally asked, “Do you ever think of spiritual things?” The veteran explained “My life is a wreck right now. I don’t believe in God, but I just said, “If you’re real, send me one of Your followers to tell me about You.” The Navy Seal asked, “Are you my guy?” Dave replied “Yep.” On the side of the Florida highway that man accepted Jesus. This is an example of placed theology!
God placed Dave that day on the side of the highway to bring Jesus to a stranger. God can use you too. Placed theology is exactly where Jesus puts you to share His love and His story with others.
When you invest time and resources into others you can make a difference for God. God intends to use you where He has strategically placed you-in your family, at your job, where you shop, live, and hang out. Get to know people around you. Listen to their stories and share some of yours. Jesus, who is in you, will rise up in conversations if you allow. These connections lead to invitations for others to get to know Jesus more.
MAKE A DENT WHERE YOU ARE SENT
Where am I sent?
YOU ARE SENT WHERE YOU ARE
God wants to use you right where you are.
SHINE!