After eight joyous days at the Feast—experiencing, as we often say, a foretaste of the fruits of God’s government on Earth—let me ask you a question:

Will you return to your daily life as a brighter light? Will you stay a bright light?

We have just spent eight days surrounded by fellow members of the body of Christ, hearing God’s Word proclaimed each day, and learning more deeply about the Church’s role in the coming thousand-year reign of Christ on Earth. We enjoyed rich fellowship, delicious meals, and beautiful surroundings. Spiritually, we were filled up—our lamps refueled with oil, ready to shine brightly.

Christ said, “Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). As we return home, the question becomes: 

Can we continue to keep a bright light as we return to our regular lives?

To find the answer, let’s turn to the Apostle Paul’s words to the Philippians:

“For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.
Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life…”
— Philippians 2:13–16 (NKJV)

In verse 13, Paul reminds us that it is God’s strength working within us that both inspires and empowers us to do His will. It is not by human effort, but through God’s Spirit, that our deeds can bring glory to Him.

He then adds a practical charge: to do all things without complaining or arguing. When we choose a spirit of gratitude and peace rather than strife and negativity, we stand out in a darkened world. Like stars in the night sky, we shine as living examples of God’s character—blameless, harmless, and filled with light.

But how do we keep that light burning bright?
Paul gives us the key: “holding fast the word of life.” This refers to both God’s written Word and Jesus Christ Himself, who is called “the Word” (John 1:1) and “the Word of life” (1 John 1:1). To hold fast means to cling tightly, as if our very life depended on it.

Daily, deep study of Scripture allows God’s Word to guide our paths (Psalm 119:105), while Christ lives in us through the indwelling of His Spirit (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27). This is how we continue to shine brightly, even in times when the world around us walks in darkness with conflict, bickering, pride, and self-focused actions.

As we return from the Feast, let us walk in the light—in our words, our actions, and our thoughts (John 8:12; 1 John 1:7).

Let’s keep shining brightly, reflecting our faith and hope in the soon-coming Kingdom of God.

I hope all of you experience a spiritually blessed Sabbath, considering one another and encouraging one another as we assemble together for Sabbath services.