Dr. Paul Dhinakaran

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”. (Matthew 5:16)

Usually it is said that a tree is known by its fruit. Same goes for a person; he/she is known by their deeds. So whatever you do or attempt to do; it reflects your character, your upbringing. And, therefore all your deeds should be gracious and honest. As the Bible says, “ Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Your life should be such; that when the world looks at you, you should be reflecting your Heavenly Father.

In the United States of America, one of the most renowned awards is the “Congressional Medal of Honor”. And in the whole of history of US, there have been only 3000 Americans, honored with this award. Now, it so happened that coincidentally, a father and a son were awarded that honor simultaneously for their respective services. In the year 1909, the father received it; when he retired from the army as a superior officer. At the same time, the son too was a recipient of this honor for his meritorious service on the battlefield, when the American army fought the battle against the Philippines. His exploits in the battle were acclaimed not only in America but also, all across the world. This young man was General Mac Arthur and his father was Arthur Mac Arthur. It was the father’s desire that his son too should be blessed and honored like him. Thus, the son fulfilled the father’s desire and established the father’s name in the book of glory.
My friend, likewise, your deeds on earth should bring glory to your Heavenly Father. It all depends on the intent of your heart; if you act in order to please men,then you can never bring glory to God and that’s why the Bible tells us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (Colossians 3:23). You may wonder, where is that place and what is that time to perform the good deeds and thus magnify the Lord??

But, if you look keenly for opportunities in your everyday activities, you will definitely come across something or the other with which you can honor the Lord. Your good works are going to have twofold effects; first, the world will glorify God and second they will imitate your holy example and will be moved to know and love our God. So, do not hide your light, but let it shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your heavenly Father.