Dare 2 Share - One day a little boy strolled casually up to his mother and asked: “Mommy, just how big is God?”
“Bigger than everything, son” she replied.
He pressed further: “Bigger than the moon and stars?”
“Yes”
“Bigger than the whole universe?”
“That’s right honey- but why do you ask?”
“Because you said that when we trust Christ, God comes to live inside us.”
“I did say that sweetheart, but what does that have to do with how big he is?”
“Well Mommy, if God is bigger that the whole universe, and He also lives inside us- shouldn’t He show through?”
Jesus said: “You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand.” (Matthew 5:14-15)
Let’s face it…that kid was onto something. It really does make sense that if the Eternal God of the universe has chosen to somehow take up residence in our puny souls, eventually folks around should be able to tell. But just what does that look like?
Well to start with it means that you are in perfect relationship with other Christians.
Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples--when they see the love you have for each other." (John 13:34-35)
This may seem a little strange to you, but there is no room for the Holy Spirit and hateful sourness. A Holy God and a heavy grudge cannot be room mates for long. Isn’t it strange that Jesus said our distinguishing characteristic would be the way that we love each other? Not what kind of music we listen to, not what movies we do or don’t attend, not even how heavy a Bible we tote around. Yet I know plenty of “spiritual” looking believers who are as dark as a thousand midnights because they refuse to forgive.
If there is one thing the grace of God should have done for you, it is the power to let go. If you want to be any kind of witness to those around you, start with the person you see in the mirror- and see if the face staring back is full of the light of forgiveness and love for other believers.
Questions:
1) Does God’s love shine through you?
2) Do you hold a grudge against anyone for any reason?
3) What is the first step you need to take in loving other believers better?
