JP69: Light Your Candle and Fear Not

In 1555, during the reign of Queen Mary I of England, two Christian bishops, Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley, were condemned to die by burning for their faith. As they were led to the stake, Latimer turned to Ridley and said, "Be of good comfort, Master Ridley, and play the man; we shall this day light such a candle, by God's grace, in England, as I trust shall never be put out." Despite the looming flames and certainty of death, these men exhibited courage, knowing that God was with them even in the face of extreme opposition. Their bravery became a beacon of hope for countless Christians in the years to come.*

As followers of Christ, we are not strangers to opposition. Jesus was clear that persecution, misunderstanding, and even hostility would come to those who purposefully love their neighbors and share the life-changing news of His death, burial, and resurrection.

Jesus ' encouragement to his disciples in preparing them to spread the good news is a helpful reminder to remain steadfast when opposition comes.

“So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.”  Matthew 10:26-33

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The world often tries to intimidate us through threats, mockery, or rejection. But Jesus reminds us that no matter our opposition, there is a deeper reality beyond this physical world. Those who can harm the body have no power over the soul. Our ultimate trust should be in God, who holds our eternal destiny. 

Jesus points to God’s providence and care, using the humble sparrow as an example. If God is aware of the smallest bird falling to the ground, how much more does He care about us, His children? God counts every hair on our heads, which means He knows and values every detail of our lives. This knowledge should give us courage when we face opposition as ambassadors for Jesus because nothing happens outside His sovereign will.

Knowing that we do not stand alone in our trials is a great freedom. Like Latimer and Ridley, we are called to acknowledge Christ boldly, even when it costs us. Jesus promises to recognize those who stand for Him in this world before the Father in heaven. What a powerful assurance! 

In moments of fear, we can trust that God is for us and with us. He has already determined our worth; nothing can separate us from His care. So, remember these words no matter what comes your way: Light your candle and fear not!

Questions for Application:

1. What fears are holding you back from loving your neighbors and sharing your faith in Jesus?

2. How does knowing that God values you deeply—down to the number of hairs on your head—change how you face opposition?

3. In what areas of your life is God calling you to be bold in acknowledging Him despite the potential risks?

* https://www.historytoday.com/archive/months-past/latimer-and-ridley-burned-stake

Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash

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