New Lampshade

Yesterday, Betty & I went to Homebase, and came back with a new lampshade. When we tried it, it didn't look good where we had planned to put it! But I then replaced the one in my study, which has been in various of our homes for 30 years! The difference is startling. In place of the light restricting one that I have been used to - needing other lights all over the place, to counteract the gloom - now the room is bright, and I can see.
What surprises me is that one action can lead to such a dramatic change.
Jesus made a very similar point to his followers, and I wonder if it might apply to us individually or as a community. '“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.' (Matthew 5.14-16)
Several observations might help here.
First, Jesus assumes that if we are his followers, we will be at root profoundly different from the people we mix with - we will bear His light.
Second, he knows that it is almost instinctive for most of us to restrict the amount by which we want to seem different. We don't want to stick out like a sore thumb. But we are not a sore thumb! We are bearing His light.
Third, some simple actions might lead to our letting His light shine more effectively - change the lampshade!
In my case, I can remember that it is His light which is shining - and I can quietly point to Him, without embarrassment and with Jesus honouring confidence.
Lets see what happens next!
Best wishes,
Richard