Monday, May 20, 2013

By: Gwen Hitt

Show - Don't Just Tell

1 John 3:18-19   "Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. Our actions will show that we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when we stand before God."

The mother of two of my co-workers recently went on to be with the Lord. As I stood in a VERY long line to pay my respects, I heard many of the same comments. She was a wonderful person, she would be greatly missed, she had lived a good life, she was loving towards everyone.....AND I could go on and on.

Listening to these remarks, I was a little sad that I did not personally know her. While reflecting on this, I suddenly thought of what I knew of her daughters. At that moment, I realized something very important.

Although I was never given the opportunity to spend time with this special lady, I HAVE been given the awesome opportunity to experience what it would have been like through my interactions with her daughters. Over the years, I have witnessed how my co-workers have handled situations with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness.

Interestingly, as I was standing in that LONG line, I noted that just as this sweet woman's daughters exemplify a life led by the Spirit....her grandchildren are also demonstrating this as well. These young men and women took it upon themselves to mingle throughout the crowd --- giving hugs, making conversation, thanking individuals for coming, and even assisting those with needs to the front of the line.

I believe that today's scriptures are indicators of the impact that a mother can have on her family. By living a life of not only telling others that she loved them BUT also by showing them through her actions.......this precious woman was able to leave behind a phenomenal legacy for her family. One they are presently walking in.....

My challenge to all of us is to live our lives in a similar manner. By doing so, we will have the comfort of knowing that we can impact those we encounter in a lasting way. In addition, we can be assured that we will be able to one day confidently stand before the Lord.

Dear Lord, My desire is for others to see You not only in the love that I have for them but, most importantly, through my actions. I pray that my life will be one in which I can look forward to standing before You in confidence knowing that You are proud of me!

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.