SCRIPTURE:
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
OBSERVATION:
A week ago I journaled on evangelism, and how the whole point is not simply sharing the Gospel, but seeking a transformation of heart, mind and soul through the Gospel. And while that’s still the center of the mark, discipleship, I reminded today that in my relentless pursuit of holiness and righteousness I need an equal amount of relentlessness in spreading seeds of the Gospel all over the place. Jesus made sure to do that. And He did it by shining the light of the Father, putting intention into action.
APPLICATION:
This is where “this little light of mine…” becomes more than just a cute Sunday School song. It’s where we boldly shine the light of Jesus wherever the Holy Spirit leads. Even the dark places, cause in the dark the light shines even brighter. I need to know good deeds prompted by the Holy Spirit will lead to more than just a nice moment. When I truly become the hands and feet of Jesus He’s faithful to reach the mind, heart and soul.
It’s why one of the core ministries of New Hope is Extension, “responding to His commission to partner with Him in reaching others.” Jesus commanded us to “go”, so our only reasonable response is to go. When we say things like “meeting people where they’re at”, we mean just that. If we go and extend into our communities and shine the light, then that’s how they come to be evangelized. That’s how they come to hear the good news.
All we really need to do is follow Jesus’ example. The crowds followed Jesus because they witnessed all His good works. Jesus’ good works was cause for good will, which allowed Him to share the good news. As we extend the Gospel outside of the church walls our hope and prayer is that people will see good works which will create good will, allowing us to share the good news.
PRAYER:
Jesus, I pray for Your Holy Spirit to reveal and guide on where and how you want me to go as I commit to shine a light and preach a gospel that reaches the heart and connects everything to a soul. I surrender my plans to Your will. Amen
