To whom I belong

My bible studies lined up this morning, which to me is always a sign that God is really wanting me to learn this particular point. The first part, Matthew 5:14-16 which, as you know, is talking bout being a City on a Hill and shining your light before all men so that they might find Christ. Then, in my Paul study, the author is explaining the various child rearing practices in the Jewish faith and the many stages a boy must go through. She ends speaking of his becoming a man at 13. I knew this was the case with Jewish religion but I didn't know that after they become men they must robe themselves in phylacteries, which are these cubes with long straps that are worn on the left arm and forehead. The cubes hold passages from the Torah and are meant to be reminders of who you are as a Jew and what you stand for. I thought this was pretty incredible. How great would it be to have these crazy little cubes on your forehead that let others know you are a Christian? As followers of Christ, we still must practice this same idea, just not so literally, which makes it a bit harder to remind yourself. This part of the chapter really stood out to me: You see, a thirteen-year-old Hebrew boy could not even get out of bed in the morning without remembering to whom he belonged. As he would the straps of the phylacteries around his head and arm, he was reminded of his binding relationship to his Creator. Soberly, he assumed teh responsibility of one associated with God. The law of the Lord was his life. I mean, how powerful is that? I desire so strongly to put on my own phylacteries daily, by hiding His words in my heart, and removing any bushels that keep my light from shining to the world. I want to be so consumed with the God's love and His words that they are both constantly revealed to me throughout the day.
Matthew 5:14-16 You are the light of the world. A city that is set on hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put in under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.