The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Luke 8:16-18, “”Now no one after lighting a lamp covers it over with a container, or puts it under a bed; but he puts it on a lampstand, so that those who come in may see the light.
17 “For nothing is hidden that will not become evident, nor anything secret that will not be known and come to light.
18 “So take care how you listen; for whoever has, to him more shall be given; and whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has shall be taken away from him.”

These verses have always been exciting to me! For one thing, they are practical to the nth degree! The purpose of every lighted lamp is to make one’s surroundings easier to negotiate and to encourage everyone not to try and walk in the dark. My maternal grandmother comes to mind with this initial verse. I used to urge her to turn on a light when she was working in the kitchen; but she would say, “I can see. I don’t need a light.” But there were times when she did need light; and in those times, she admitted to their value.

People who intentionally do wrong always resist the light. They don’t seem to understand that everything will eventually become known when the Light comes on and reveals it. Jesus openly acknowledges that He is the Light of the world (see John 8:12 and 9:5).

Jesus also warns: “Take care how you listen.” Here He shifts the thought from “sight” to “sound.” He is the Author of both. What we do will be seen by others and will influence them as to the direction of their lives. What we say will be of influence, also, whether for good or for bad. The one who has will be given more; and the one who does not have will find that he has much less than he thought.

There are numerous meanings that could be understood from what Jesus said. One thing is sure: if you think you have it all, even that can be suddenly snatched from you. So, focus on Christ Jesus, and you will have all you’ve ever needed and more! Turn away from Him, and you will lose everything of value –and for all eternity.

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America

“We never know that Christ is all we need until He becomes all that we have.” – Corrie ten Boom