"Is the Light On?"

“Is the Light On?”

 

Since 1986 Tom Bodett has entertained radio listeners with his down-home commercials for the Motel 6 chain. Each ad ends with the promise, “We’ll leave the light on for ya!” By this he assures potential guests that they’ll always be welcome whenever they arrive. Many travelers have found this true as they’ve utilized the “no frills” hospitality offered to rest their weary bodies.

In Luke 15 we read what’s probably one of Jesus’ two most familiar parables, commonly called The Prodigal Son (the other is The Good Samaritan in Luke 10). The story describes the relationship between a father and his two sons. The older one stayed with his family’s business while the younger demanded his inheritance, left home, and wasted all he had. Once he hit bottom he decided to return home, confess his sins, and ask his father for a job. But he never got a chance to request employment—his father was waiting, welcomed him with a party, and rejoiced that “…This son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” (Luke 15:24). In other words, the light was always on for his wayward boy to come home.

Through the centuries God has always left His light on for His rebellious people to return to Him (“’Return to me, and I will return to you,’ says the Lord Almighty.”—Malachi 3:7). By sending His Son Jesus, “…The light of the world.” (John 8:12) He made it possible for all to come to Him by believing (“…To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God….”—John 1:12). And His desire is that His Light burn brightly through His people (“…Let your light shine out for all to see….”—Matthew 5:16, NIV and NLT).

As I was writing these words a thought struck me: As a pastor I should have seen to it that the front entrance light of the church building was always left on to show God was always ready to welcome all. Regrettably it’s too late for me to do so now but maybe not for others. So I’d encourage anyone reading this to say to your community “We welcome you” by leaving your church building’s light (and our Light) on.

 

Blessings!

Jim McMillan