by this they will know

My mom used to tell me that “we may be the only Bible people ever read.” Most people have heard this before, but what does it mean?

It means that as a Christian, you are a representative of Christ. Some people may never go to church or hear God’s word, but they see you as their definition of Christ-like.

In the Great Commission, Jesus told his disciples to go into the world where they were and make disciples of all nations. Today, we have even more opportunities to come into contact with others whether it is face-to-face or via cell phones or the internet. There are also many people with whom the only contact we have is in passing or watching from afar. More important than what we say or claim to be is what others see.  Actions speak volumes.

Some Christians carry themselves so that there is no doubt whose they are. When you’re around them, you want what they have. It is my prayer to be like that.

All people are born with a Christ-shaped void inside that needs to be filled. And of all the people you come in contact with, you never know who could be searching. Even when you hit a rough patch, or are just having a bad day, others are observing your actions—and reactions. Remember that, as a Christian, you live in a city on a hill. Shine your light so that maybe, just maybe, someone else might catch a glimpse of the Kingdom.

“Even so let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

I am reminded of a song we used to sing in youth choir based on John 13:35:“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

If we only love the lovely, or those we call our own

Or if we give expecting something in return

If our mercy has a limit, if our reach has an end

If our favor must always be earned

What makes the difference in the world’s eyes?

Where is the proof we belong to Christ?

By this they will know who Jesus is

By this they will know that we are his:

 If we give of ourselves as he gave himself for us

By this they will know him. They'll know Jesus by our love.

Love is never selfish; it never wants its way

And it never can remember debts unpaid

It is full of compassion and humility

This is the love that we claim

That makes the difference in the world’s eyes.

There is the proof that we belong to Christ.

By this they will know who Jesus is

By this they will know that we are his:

 If we give of ourselves as he gave himself for us

By this they will know him. They'll know Jesus by our love.