Known by Works

“After this Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias, and he revealed himself in this way.  Simon Peter, Thomas, Nathanael, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, ‘I am going fishing.’ They said to him, ‘We will go with you.’ They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.

“Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.  Jesus said to them, ‘Children, do you have any fish?’ They answered him, ‘No.’  He said to them, ‘Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.’ So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish.  That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, ‘It is the Lord!’ 

“Jesus said to them, ‘Come and have breakfast.’ Now none of the disciples dared ask him, ‘Who are you?’ They knew it was the Lord… This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.” John 21:1-7a,12,14

“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 5:16

All Jesus said and did on earth revealed His divinity. His works pointed to facets of His majesty, beauty, and perfect character, and beckoned to trust and everlasting life. Throughout His public ministry His teaching penetrated minds with heavenly wisdom, His commands inspired hope, His healing restored life and zeal, His feeding nourished, His companionship challenged and encouraged His friends in faith, mindset, and purpose. After the resurrection, He comforted, satisfied, and edified those closest to Him by kindnesses, conversation, and serving. Indeed, his actions were done and recorded that we might believe Jesus is the Christ, and by believing have life in His name. (Luke 24:15,27-32,35; John 6:11-12; 11:14-15,40; 20:30-31)

It is God’s call for every believer to do good works so Jesus is known and magnified. When we determine to reflect Him, He enhances all we say and do for His sake with a touch of the divine. A note written carries holy words, a welcoming home offers otherworldly peace and sanctuary, a shared meal His presence and satisfaction.

Beware misaligned motivation for recognition or applause. Doing unto self reaps paltry fruit. Getting caught up in the cause of Christ not only enriches us but bears robust blessing unto God’s praise. Which will it be for me? (2 Corinthians 8:3-9; 9:6-8,10-13)

How are we daily making Jesus known? Do others recognize Him when we come alongside to comfort, extend mercy or forgiveness, give refreshment or practical help? Can they sense Him in tender, personal care, and insight shared? (Luke 24:35; John 20:14-16,18)

“Take Your truth, plant it deep in us;
Shape and fashion us in Your likeness,
That the light of Christ might be seen today
In our acts of love and our deeds of faith.
Speak, O Lord, and fulfill in us
All Your purposes for Your glory.” ~Keith and Kristyn Getty (2006)

Lord, help me faithfully exhibit Christ by keeping on with good works for the good of others and Your glorious renown.

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Author: astherainandsnow

I love God's word and the God of the word. Isaiah 55:10-11 describes my vision for the blog: as the Lord has displayed so beautifully in nature the work of His living word in man, I desire the words I write to show forth His glory in creation (my photographs and art of words) and His word so the truth of scripture takes deep root, grows, and bears much fruit- of spirit and praise to Him. To my Lord be all the glory for what He accomplishes through His word! ~P. Bunn

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