A few days ago, sightings of a rare phenomenon in Singapore known as bioluminescence sent people (myself included) flocking to the beaches in hopes of catching a glimpse of the blue waves.

I’ve never seen the beaches this crowded at night before. I even overheard several people saying: “I’m only here for the glowing waves.”

People didn’t come in the blackness of the night to see the dark sea — they came to see the light. Or in this case, bioluminescent algal blooms.

I’ve always wondered why people are always inexplicably so drawn to light, especially in the midst of darkness. There’s a magnetic quality about luminescence that draws people in and compels them to take a closer look.

It reminds me of Philippians 2:15. As children of God, we bear the light of Christ — it illuminates and sets us apart from the darkness of this world. It is a light that draws others to Himself.

But what does it actually mean for us to shine with this light of Christ? How can we live so that others who see us will also be drawn to Him? 

Light #1: Shining with hope

In a world increasingly filled with so much bad news, it is natural to be riddled with fear and anxiety. People might question how we can still have peace and even be joyful in difficult situations.

The difference is instead of being worried about our ever-changing uncertain circumstances, we can be anchored firmly on Christ our cornerstone. We have an eternal hope that is unshakeable.

And hence, we can experience not only an overflow of peace, but also His fullness of joy, knowing that God is always present with us regardless of what we find ourselves going through.

As such, we reflect the light of His eternal hope and joy even in the darkest and most despairing of times.

Light #2: Shining with goodness 

Our light also reflects the heart of God — when others look at us, they catch a glimpse of who He is. 

Our good conduct reflects the goodness of our Father.

On the flip side, are we mindful of how our behaviour might be projecting a bad image of God?

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)… (Ephesians 5:8-9)

When we allow God to transform our hearts, we start to become more Christ-like, with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Instead of being conformed to worldly patterns of speech and action, we must let this ongoing process of sanctification overflow into our daily lives.

Our words and our ways make up our witness.

May our words be seasoned with His grace and whatever we do be God-honouring. May we walk righteously and love others as Jesus did.

Though we may not always realise it, when we live as children of the light, we are shining for God. 

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

Just like the glowing bioluminescent algae in the dark sea, God’s light in us makes us stand out from the darkness of this world.

It is what sets us apart, and intrigues and compels others to take a closer look.

When people come closer to examine this light in us, may they too be drawn to Christ who is the One true source of our light. To Him be the glory!