Tony’s Soldiers of Light Sundays: Let Your Light Shine – A Call to Be a Light in the Darkness
- Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.
- Feb 16
- 4 min read

Today marks the 16th day of Black History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the rich history, resilience, and contributions of Black individuals who have shaped the world. This week, we focus on a theme deeply rooted in both faith and history: being a light in the darkness. Throughout history, Black Americans have been shining lights, illuminating paths of justice, faith, and strength in the face of oppression. They carried torches of hope, wisdom, and determination, passing them down from generation to generation. Now, it is our time to do the same.
The Call to Shine in Dark Places
Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV), “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it 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.”
For centuries, Black Americans have embodied this verse, using their faith and courage to illuminate the darkest times in history. They refused to be hidden. Instead, they boldly let their light shine through leadership, activism, education, and service to others.
Black History Heroes Who Shined Their Light
Throughout history, certain figures have answered the call to be a light in the darkness:
Ida B. Wells – A journalist and activist, Wells fearlessly exposed racial injustices, shining light on the truth through her writings and speeches.
Rosa Parks – With quiet dignity, she refused to give up her bus seat, igniting a movement and proving that one person’s light can spark a revolution.
Thurgood Marshall – Through law, he fought for justice, becoming the first Black Supreme Court Justice and paving the way for a more equitable legal system.
Maya Angelou – Through poetry and storytelling, she uplifted generations with words of wisdom, resilience, and hope.
John Lewis – He encouraged people to make “good trouble,” standing against oppression with unwavering faith and determination.
Each of these individuals took the light God gave them and used it to dispel the darkness of racism, injustice, and inequality.
How We Can Shine Today
As we celebrate Black History Month, we must also ask ourselves: How can we shine our light in today’s world? The struggles of the past have not disappeared, and the world still needs voices of truth, hands of service, and hearts full of faith. Here are some ways we can continue shining:
Live by Example – Let your actions reflect Christ’s love, kindness, and justice.
Speak Truth to Power – Be bold in confronting injustices, just as those before us have done.
Uplift and Encourage – Support your community, mentor the next generation, an spread positivity.
Hold Onto Faith – Even in difficult times, remember that God’s light never fades.
Celebrate and Educate – Share the stories of Black history and faith, ensuring that future generations know the power of perseverance and belief.
Shining Light in S.O.L.A.D.™
In S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™, Kevin Edwards (Angelo) and Juanita Grayson (Angeline) know the weight of standing as a beacon in dark times. They face challenges that threaten to consume them, yet they continue pressing forward, carrying the light of God’s truth into the battle. Just as historical Black leaders fought against oppression and sought justice, Angelo and Angeline must rise up and lead, knowing that their faith makes them unstoppable.
Their journey is a reminder that light overcomes darkness, and with God’s power, we too can illuminate even the darkest of places.
A Call to Action: Let Your Light Shine
On this 16th day of Black History Month, let us reflect on our role as lights in the darkness. The same God who strengthened Harriet Tubman, who emboldened Dr. King, and who gave courage to Rosa Parks is with us today. He has called us to continue shining, making an impact in our families, churches, and communities.
💡 Reflection Questions:Mart
In what ways has God called you to be a light in the world?
How can you use your faith to uplift those around you?
Who in Black history has inspired you to walk boldly in faith?
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5 (NKJV)
As we continue to honor Black History Month, let’s commit to keeping the torch burning. Let us be the light, standing for truth, walking in faith, and carrying forward the legacy of those who paved the way before us. We are Soldiers of Light Against Darkness, shining brightly so that the world may see and glorify our Father in heaven.
About S.O.L.A.D.™ and Where to Purchase
Just as the heroes of Black history have left a lasting legacy through their faith and perseverance, my superhero novel series, S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™, is dedicated to telling powerful stories of spiritual warfare, resilience, and unwavering faith. These books explore what it means to stand in God’s truth, to fight against darkness, and to walk boldly as a Soldier of Light Against Darkness™.
For readers looking for faith-driven action, inspiration, and biblical wisdom woven into a compelling narrative, my books are available for purchase online. To learn more and get your autographed copies, visit my official website at www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop.
Let us continue to shine the light of faith in our own lives and be the Soldiers of Light the world needs.
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