Who Are You?

A person is who they are to you. The reverse is also true, you are who you are to an individual. For example, person “A” may be kind, gracious, and thoughtful to person “B.” Thus, when person “B” thinks of person “A” that is the image that comes to mind.

Then person “A” encounters person “C” and is curt, rude, and unkind. Thus, when person “C” thinks of person “A” that is the image that comes to mind.

This means we build our reputation person by person. That necessitates consistency. Socrates exclaimed, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Aristotle went further saying, “The highest good for a man is self-realization.” That is a bit of an overstatement, but it does indicate it is important. With this challenge in mind, think of what image you would like for people to have of you. Pause and frame that image clearly. When you have that image clearly in mind, resume reading.

Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5: 14 – 16) 

Be transparent, let Jesus showcase Himself through you.

We often say of an individual he or she is just like, and name someone we know. Live so that when you leave a person they muse over the likeness of Jesus. 

In using the imagery of a city on a hill Jesus is saying be public about your faith. Don’t be a spiritual chameleon. 

Let’s be realistic, there are times, places, and positions that demand harsh reprimands be given and authoritative commands expressed often with a loud and even stern voice, like a coach. It can be done in an affirming way.

The following text is as relevant as though written today. Read it observing the conditions prevailing and then consider the proper response in such a world.

“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.” (Philippians 2:14-16)

Let your theme song be that old classic, 

“This little light of mine I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.”

                                               Glow on!