Good morning All. Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
14 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
Ephesians 2:8-10 (NIV)
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Well, I’m sitting here trying to figure out what to share…where to start. Ought-a-be easy, given the source of the “material”…not to mention the theme of for this series that Pastor’s leading us through…you know…”Let your light so shine before men”…with today’s focus titled “…That they might see…!!!” I hate to admit it, but I just didn’t connect real well with all this. Yes, it was a wonderful service….both of them…good singin’, preachin’, prayin’ & meetin’…just didn’t click for me, today.
Not to mention, that this area of Scripture is real convicting for me. I know for a fact, I’ve not handled the many blessings in my life as well as I should have…especially the blessings of my relationship with my wife and children…certainly not worthy of “being light”, much less being placed up on light stand….and there’s a path for me? But why?
…and then He intervenes….Why?…because he is my Father, and He saved me through the grace – the unmerited favor- and mercy extended to me through His Son Jesus Christ. Why?...because I am His workmanship. Why?....because He has good works for me to do. Why?...because He wants to put me on display…the true heart of a father…my Father.
Father, please forgive my “unconnectedness” . Thank you for your word…your faithfulness….and all the grace and mercy bestowed upon me through the living word…the true source of light – Jesus Christ. May my light, my deeds, my actions bring glory, honor and praise to you, Father. Amen.
Sure would like to hear your thoughts. Blessings on your day!
jim