“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:6-7
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! ” 1 John 3:1
One gift of a long drive is beholding the broad and varied beauty over many miles. Clouds mingle and meander, changing form and shedding shadows with changing light. Soft hills rise and flatten. Suddenly splashed flecks of color fill the median and shoulder of an otherwise plain road, offering splendor and delight to the senses, catching both the eye and breath.
Our schedules and days cover many miles, and as Christians we own God’s splendid seed of grace and truth. We can hum along, self-focused, and hoard it, or keep hold and save it. Or, we can with joyful effort strew it out and along to scatter His light and loveliness. It takes intention, yet we only need sow- all else and any growth and blessing is up to Him. (John 1:14; 1 Corinthians 3:6)
So what drives us as we drive ahead in our rhythms and endeavors? Is our goal to produce, achieve, and finish? Or do we prepare our souls early and seek where the Lord would have us go, what speed He would have us travel, whom He would have us touch or encourage or thank, and where He might want us to serve?
Just as our heart can skip with delight in a glorious colorful spread we know is not haphazard, may we so take care to plant those hints of God’s glory for others. What will I say or do to make a difference today, and cause someone to see and extol Jesus?
“Out in the highways and byways of life,
Many are weary and sad;
Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife,
Making the sorrowing glad.
Tell the sweet story of Christ and his love,
Tell of his pow’r to forgive;
Others will trust him if only you prove
True, ev’ry moment you live.
Give as ’twas given to you in your need,
Love as the Master loved you;
Be to the helpless a helper indeed,
Unto your mission be true.
Refrain:
Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing.
Out of my life may Jesus shine;
Make me a blessing, O Savior, I pray.
Make me a blessing to someone today.” ~Ira B. Wilson (1909)
Lord, keep me faithful to scatter Your beautiful excellencies wherever I go, for the sake of Your renown.
As the rain and snow 