We must shine brightly in a dark world!

As Bonfire Night arrives, Naomi Blowers calls us to ignite with God's light.

There is something captivating about fireworks. The sky darkens, the crowd goes quiet and, for a moment, anticipation fills the air. Then – BOOM! A brilliant burst of colour explodes across the night sky. Each sparkle fades quickly yet, for that instant, everything feels alive with wonder and light.

Fireworks have a way of capturing attention. They make people look up. They bring communities together. They transform an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. As Christians, we are called to do something quite similar: to shine brightly in a dark world so that others might look up and see God’s glory.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:16: ‘Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.’ That light isn’t meant to be hidden or quiet. It’s meant to shine in such a way that others can’t help but notice – not because of how impressive we are, but because of how radiant God’s love is through us.

Think of how fireworks start. Before the explosion, they’re simply shells – plain, unremarkable and waiting to be ignited. But, once they’re lit, the spark travels deep inside, reaching the powder that’s been carefully packed within. The result is a dazzling display that transforms the night.

Our faith works in much the same way. Without the spark of the Holy Spirit, we’re just potential – shells with promise. But when God’s Spirit ignites our hearts, his power within us bursts forth in acts of love, compassion and grace. What was once ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Of course, fireworks don’t last for ever. They flare brightly, then fade into smoke. But our faith isn’t meant to fizzle out. The light we carry isn’t a fleeting display; it’s a steady flame that points to something eternal. Moments of brilliance matter, but what God calls us to is a lifetime of shining consistently, even when no one is watching.

Still, there’s beauty in the fleeting nature of fireworks. Each burst is unique – just like the way each of us reflects God’s glory differently. Some shine quietly through acts of service. Others blaze brightly in leadership or creativity. Some light the sky through words of encouragement while others illuminate dark places through simple kindness.

Sometimes, it’s in the darkest skies that the light shines brightest. Fireworks need the night to reveal their beauty Likewise, God often uses our darkest seasons to reveal his greatest glory. When life feels heavy or uncertain, his light in us can still break through – bringing hope, comfort and awe to those around us.

So next time you watch fireworks, let them remind you of your calling. Let them draw your heart to the One who sets your soul alight. Ask God to keep your flame burning – not for your own applause, but so that others might look up and see his glory through your life.

Reflect and respond

• Read Matthew 5:13–16. How can you shine before others this week in your words and actions? Pray for courage, confidence, compassion and grace.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to keep your flame alight, even when no one is watching.