How is the world around us different because we have experienced the grace of God in Jesus Christ?
This is the question that Pastor Matt asked us on Sunday, and I am just wondering if you have had a chance to think about it yet? It's a pretty deep question. When I think about it, I think about changing the world by being an example of Christ. I think about being kind to others, having patience with people, loving people unconditionally, withholding judgement, and helping when I am able, but it's more than that.
I also think that we change the world by sharing our stories of transformation and giving others something to relate to. We change the world by sharing where we used to be and where we are now. We change the world by being open about our faults and the mistakes that we have made, and then giving God the credit for redeeming us, and also by giving Him the credit for our strength, our wisdom, and the joy that comes from a relationship with Him. In my mind, this is how we change the world and make it different, by being different ourselves. After all, just as Matt said on Sunday, we have been set apart to live differently, and to be a witness to God's redeeming mercy and grace. In my mind, we can change the world by giving people hope and confidence that if God can do these good works for us, then He will do it for them too.
So, with that being said, I encourage you today to keep thinking about this question and come up with some ways that you might share your story with others. I also encourage you to take advantage of every single opportunity that you have to lift God up and give Him praise in front of other people so that they too can appreciate Him and hopefully decide to make a difference themselves.