“For I think God has displayed us, the apostles, in last place, like men condemned to die: we have become a spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men.” – 1 Cor. 4:9
When we lived in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, October was one of the most visited times of the year. People would come far and wide to see the leaves change as the mountain side was transformed into a kaleidoscope of color. What was once green and monotone, was now alive and active with all shades of red, yellow, orange and even purple. It was truly breathtaking.
This change beautifully illustrates what God does in each of us as we are touched by His grace and mercy. We leave behind the old, mundane monotone look (like the world) and morph into a display of righteousness which is not our own but given to us by the One who gave His life for us.
But don’t forget, we are on display before the whole world. Come watch us out of curiosity, wondering what could have marked such a difference. Come watch us with expected smugness, waiting for the moment when/if we will leave it behind, as if it was a phase of life, or the newest fad in our lives. Others watch with bated breath hoping this newness could possibly be true but because of life and other voices are not quite sure. Some look on us with longing, desperately seeking that which we have discovered.
However, no matter why they look upon us, we should live in such a way, which exalts Christ in all we do and be ready to tell others about what He has done for us. We are focused this year on Knowing Christ, but that shouldn’t be to the exclusion of Making Him Known.
So, let your colors fly. Show others what Jesus has done in you. Sure, you aren’t always going to get it right. But this isn’t about you. This is about Him, and He uses broken vessels all the time. He has no problem using you.
Following Him,
Pastor Jeff