Every day on my way to work, I drive through Old Town, a historical area of town in Alexandria, VA with buildings dating back to the 1700s. It’s a beautiful part of town, full of history and charming shops, restaurants and residences. There is one building that always catches my eye. While there is nothing remarkable about the white-painted brick building itself, on this building is painted a beautiful, bright, bold mural of Amanda Gorman with these words: 

For there is always light,

if only we’re brave enough to see it.

If only we’re brave enough to be it.

The mural draws me in, but it’s the words that resonate and linger in my mind. As believers, we are called to be light to the world, to allow the love of Jesus to shine through us for the glory of God. This is made clear in Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

There are many ways to let your light shine. Sometimes, it’s as small as a simple smile, a thank you, a genuine “how are you?” Sometimes, it’s bringing a meal to someone going through a hard time, offering babysitting hours to a worn out parent or mowing the lawn for an elderly neighbor. Other times, it’s standing for what is right, by engaging with your leaders, whether in the church, your school, your workplace or government. 

April is National Volunteer Month. This started in 1991, under then-President George H.W. Bush; he handed out Point of Light awards six days a week to people who worked to help their communities through volunteerism. 

When you volunteer for an organization, you provide an invaluable service, helping them to achieve their goals and mission. You become a part of that mission, working to better your community. 

I would encourage you to look around your neighborhood, school, church, community and see where you can make a difference. Find an organization that shares your passions and find out how you can volunteer to help them in their mission. Contact your local Salvation Army—I guarantee that they have community projects that need your help. You can be a difference maker in the world around you; shine your light, if you’re brave enough to be it.