It is amazing to see the moon shine brightly during the night. But we also know it is not the moon itself that generates light; it is reflecting the light from the sun. In the same way, as believers, we are called to reflect the light of the Lord in our dark world.

The apostle Paul uses the contrast between light and darkness to show a difference between believers and unbelievers. The believers in Ephesus were in danger of compromise due to their close relationship with those who were disobedient. Paul warns them: “God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them” (vv. 6–7).

We are not the source of our own light, it comes from the Lord. While in our unbelieving state we were identified by darkness, now we reflect God’s light. This should affect the way we walk and talk and live. Paul says that children of light should live in a manner that is markedly different from the world. He cautions that “there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people” (v. 3). The characteristics of God, “goodness, righteousness and truth” (v. 9), are the opposite of the characteristics of darkness. Paul strongly cautions in verse 11, “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”

Christ’s light shines through us so that those who are living in darkness will be illuminated. He urges in verse 14, “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Jesus used this same imagery in Matthew 5:18 when He told His followers to “let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”