Yet the LORD was not willing to destroy Judah, for the sake of David his servant, since he promised to give a lamp to him and to his sons forever. ~ 2 Kings 8:19
Do you see the two (2) lamps in the picture above? One is pretty obvious. The other is the lamp of God's Word, as we see described in God's word in places like Psalm 119:105 ("Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.")
Of course, the Psalmist is not speaking literally; this is Hebrew poetry after all. But the meaning is radiantly illuminating. God's word is meant to shine on the ways of our lives and guide us with spiritual illumination.
One way this shining lamp (of God's word, guiding us by the Holy Spirit) helps us is to see that in the verse from 2 Kings 8, the "lamp" that God promises to give to David and to his offspring forever is also not a literal lamp. Instead, this is the lamp of ruling God's chosen people as their king (see 2 Samuel 7:11-16). This has indeed come true in the forever rule and reign of King Jesus (see for example John 1:1-14; 8:12; Revelation 21:22-25).
So how exactly does this rule and reign of King Jesus - the Lamp of God Who is the Lamb of God - get revealed to the people of the world? Through those who are trusting in Christ Jesus by faith, His followers.
"You are the light of the world...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 5:14a, 16
"for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light" ~ Ephesians 5:8
Striving to reflect Christ's Gospel light through our lives, and praying the same for you,
~ Pastor Sean and Tess
PS - What a blessing from the Men of CBC this past Sunday! The meal was delicious. The service was refreshing. The atmosphere was filled with God's love and light in Christ. Thank you to all involved. Teaser - Something is stirring for the month of March by the Women of CBC.