How Will They Know We Are Christian?
Connie Altman of Jackson, OH, USA
I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have being.
May my meditation be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the LORD. -Psalm 104:33-34
I have many Facebook friends from a variety of faiths, all of whom are well meaning. Occasionally someone sends me a story, scripture, or prayer that tells me to send it on and I will be blessed. If I don’t send it on, something bad may happen to me.
It occurs to me that perhaps this is a little like when Satan tempted Jesus by wanting him to prove he was the son of God. “If you are the son of God…” do this, this, and this, and people will worship you. How different from that is, “If you are a Christian, you will send this to 10 people”?
I understand we must be valiant in testimony, but I hope to live my life in such a way that sending out Facebook stories is not necessary to prove I am a Christian. It will take much more determination, faith, and courage to be kind to everyone, even when they are not kind to me, to be courageous enough to stand up for those whom society knocks down, and to be generous with my time, talents, testimony, and treasure with those who are in need.
My prayer is that God will bolster me up when I find it difficult to do these things. God has done it before and I’m sure will continue to be by my side.
Prayer Phrase
God bless the spaces between us.
Spiritual Practice
Tears of Compassion
Offer a silent prayer for the gift of God’s compassion. Cup your hands and ask God to make you aware of the suffering that causes the Earth and its inhabitants to groan and weep. Be open to faces or places, sounds or voices, feelings of connection with those who suffer. Imagine catching the tears of those you see and holding them in your hands. Listen for prayer images or words God may give you. Discern any active responses of ministry or healing you sense invited to complete for those who weep.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
