City on a Hill

Ye are the light of the world.  A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.

Matthew 5:14

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Every time we drive by one of the little cities in Italy that sits on a hill, I think of this scripture.  Italy should really be full of light because almost all the cities had their origin on the top of a hill.  Quite often a castle was built on the top of a hill so enemies couldn't come and attack as easily because the soldiers who were in the watch tower would see the enemies and could stop them before they attacked the village.  Usually a church is located nearby.  Once a village was established, other buildings and homes were built to surround the original structure.  Villages were built from the top down which meant they were built on the side of the hill as close to the top as possible.  It was easier to protect the villagers if they were close by.

Perhaps we should pattern our lives the same way.  We should always look towards the Kingdom of God which is at the top.  Churches are our sanctuary here on earth.  We should always look to God for help and guidance.  If we stay close to God and to the church, we are protected and watched over.

Another way to liken the scripture to our lives is that people are always watching us.  Here in the mission field our anziani (elders) and sorelle (sisters) stand out with their white shirts and modest attire.  People are drawn to them because of the spiritual light that emanates from them.  They carry a message that will save people and help bring them unto the light of Christ.

The villa is located in an area of Rome known as Monte Sacro (Sacred Mountain).  A couple of days ago, one of the sisters called to tell us she had met a woman who lives near the villa and walks by it all the time.  She wanted to know why the villa was different because it always has a good feel about it.  She is scheduled to receive her first lesson.  We have asked that the next lesson be taught in the villa.  We hope our missionaries and the villa provide a light to the world that cannot be hid.