In John 7, we see Jesus walking in Galilee. The Messiah says to them, “My time is not yet come: but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil.” Here we are told by Jesus, it is the Truth that will convict you of your deeds, whether they are good or evil. Why? Because Jesus is the Truth. They will hate the Lord because of His words. Even if it may seem that their anger is directed at you.

Jesus goes on to say, “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” As we grow in the Gospel and begin our walk of faith, the words of Jesus Christ become a part of us. As we continue on, He becomes more of who we are. While letting go of the old man, and putting on the new, the doctrine of Jesus Christ begins to resound like a bell from within our heart.

As that bell is sounding, ringing, and singing to the Lord, some will come to see what that noise is all about. Of those, are ones that are annoyed at the sound of the bell. It is like an alarm clock telling them to get right with God. For others, it becomes music to their ears. Just as in that trilogy we are all to familiar with, The Lord of the Rings, “The Beacons of Minas Tirith! The Beacons are lit!” “Gondor calls for aid!”

Jesus tells us in Matthew 5, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Become that light that shines out of a dark place. And let the peace of God, rule in your hearts.

Jonathan Heller – Lift Up A Banner