SCRIPTURE: Mark 4:21-25
It seems that many people (including Christians) have become desensitized to the message… they hear it without really grasping it.
This is why Jesus uses stories, to make sure that the light somehow shines.
If people refuse to listen, then show them, don’t allow it to remain hidden.
Jesus says that when people do open (give) themselves to the message, they increase in wisdom and understanding.
But those who close themselves to God actually become less wise, more foolish.
For a long time Christians have used words as their primary mode of communication, to the point that people tune us out as soon as we start speaking.
Maybe it’s time to change how we communicate the message…
If words (teaching) isn’t working, let’s try deeds, a different stand upon which to place the light.
Witnessing in deeds is not less than witnessing in words, it is living the gospel like a story (a parable, truth with skin on), which lodges itself in people’s hearts and minds, impacting them long after the event occurs.
Guaranteed, love people like Jesus and they will seek you out to know the reason for the hope and love that you have (1 Peter 3:15), the perfect opportunity for you to witness with your words.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, Your life was the perfect parable. You lived God’s love for all to see, and people came seeking You. May my life shine like yours, that many more may give themselves to You and receive so much more.
Observations/Application
I am reminded of the story of Max Lucado and the candles in the closet – not yet being ready to do what they were created for. Let your light shine before man. I am an example of Christ – His follower – and others must be able to see just that. I must live His Word and not the world’s word. I need to show the love ofJesus by what I say and do. A show and tell ministry – word and deed. Knowing = loving = doing.
Prayer
Help me Lord on my way also today.
Lord the Light or Your Love is shining,
In the midst of the darkness shining,
Jesus light of the world shine upon us,
Set us free by the truth You now bring us,
Shine on me. Shine on me.
Shine Jesus shine
Fill this land with the Father’s glory
Blaze, Spirit blaze,
Set our hearts on fire
Flow, river flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth Your word
Lord and let there be light.
Lord I come to Your awesome presence,
From the shadows into Your radiance,
By the blood I may enter Your brightness,
Search me, try me, consume all my darkness,
Shine on me. Shine on me.
As we gaze on Your kindly brightness.
So our faces display Your likeness.
Ever changing from glory to glory,
Mirrored here may our lives tell Your story.
Shine on me. Shine on me.