18th July 2026

The Lamplighter

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works

and glorify your Father in heaven."

Matthew 5:16

Today's Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16.

Twilight gave way to darkness across Victorian London. The horse-drawn cab carrying Charles Spurgeon clattered towards the bottom of the hill. A single light appeared up ahead. Then another. And another. Ascending, one by one, to the summit. A lamplighter, invisible in the gloom, was igniting the wicks of the streetlamps. 

Preacher, author and activist for the poor, Spurgeon was a well-known figure. Yet he was deeply stirred by the influence of the humble, unknown lamplighter. “I do wish,” he wrote, “that my life may be spent igniting one soul after another with the sacred flame of eternal life.” Significantly, he added, he himself should remain, as far as possible, unseen. 

It is natural to want to be noticed for the things that we do. Yet the unseen lamplighter’s influence beautifully illustrates what it means to live as “the light of the world” (v 14). When we are prepared to turn the focus away from ourselves, others “will see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (v 16). What a privilege that our lives have been infused with the self-giving nature of Christ’s love and grace so that others may be drawn to His distinctive beauty through us (v 16).  

We bring Christ’s presence to everyone we meet. May we gently dispel any darkness of fear or unbelief by shining His light into their lives, rather than seeking to focus on ourselves. 

Prayer: Forgive me, Lord Jesus, when I seek praise for myself. Inspire me as Your light-bearer to turn other’s attention to You. In Your wonderful name I pray. Amen.