Be a Light in the World, Genesis 1:14-16

When the Almighty created the sun, moon, and stars, He didn’t just place them in the sky to look nice. He gave them a purpose—to separate day from night, to mark time, and to light up the world. But there’s a deeper lesson here for us.

Rashi explains that when the sun or moon is eclipsed, it’s a bad sign for the world:

"When the luminaries are eclipsed, it is an unfavorable omen for the world, as it is said (Jeremiah 10:2): 'and from the signs of the heaven be not dismayed, etc.' When you perform the will of the Holy One, blessed be He, you need not fear retribution." (Succah 29a)

This teaches us something powerful—the world around us reflects our choices. If people stray from what’s right, sometimes nature itself seems to react. But if we follow the Almighty’s ways, we don’t need to be afraid because we are in harmony with His plan.

The sun and moon also teach us about our own purpose. The sun shines by day, and the moon by night, but the moon doesn’t have its own light—it reflects the sun. In the same way, we are meant to reflect the Almighty’s light in this world. This is why our holidays follow the lunar cycle—just like the moon, we go through phases, ups and downs, but we always have the chance to renew ourselves and return to our best selves.

And there’s one more key lesson: the luminaries exist to give light. They don’t keep their brightness to themselves—they share it. That’s our job too. We are meant to bring kindness, wisdom, and goodness to the world around us. Whether it’s through helping a friend, learning Torah, or doing mitzvot, each of us has the ability to brighten someone’s life.

So let’s take this lesson to heart. Just like the sun and moon always fulfill their purpose, let’s fulfill ours. When we face hard times, let’s remember Rashi’s words: “When you perform the will of the Holy One, blessed be He, you need not fear retribution.” Instead, let’s be a source of light, bringing warmth where there is cold, clarity where there is confusion, and goodness where it’s needed most.

As it is written: “And they shall be for luminaries… to shed light upon the earth.” May we all shine our light and make the world a brighter place. Amen.