One of the most beautiful buildings, inside and out, is South Dakota’s State Capitol. The grounds and the buildings are constantly being cared for with respect and excellence. On my last visit, when I complimented one of the custodians he said, “We want her to SHINE!” As I pondered that statement, I knew God had shined His favor on us, on South Dakota. I also know He wants to use pastors and churches to shine His righteousness on government. A ‘shine’ far more brilliant than any polished floor or manicured garden.

God’s Word is the brightest light pastors and churches can shine. Inside the walls and outside its walls, pastors and congregations can effectively illumine legislation that is in agreement with God’s counsel. Stepping up, by praying for and recruiting candidates of faith radiates hope. Standing up, for righteousness dispels the darkness of unbiblical laws and practices. Speaking up, expands the spectrum of God’s influence into the ears and hearts of those under our care. Showing up, focuses and brightens the spotlight of like-minded ministries. When pastors and churches support other Godly ministries, Truth’s Light for faith, for family, for freedom, for life, for purity, for compassion becomes a floodlight!

Matthew 5 is one of 2KM’s Lighthouse Foundational Scriptures. Pastors and churches are called to shine the Light of Christ and His righteousness, into a world being ravaged by storm-tossed seas of sin’s darkness… “¹⁴ You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; ¹⁵ nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. ¹⁶ Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” The call is clear… Shine the Light. Shine it from Calvary’s hill of victory! Come out from under baskets of fear or indifference. Firmly fix your light on the Lampstand of influence where God has planted you! SHINE Jesus, shine!