Does this stuff really work???

Memories of our lives, of our works and our deeds will continue in others. –Rosa Parks


I’ve been seeing these things pop up all over my neighborhood again. Little signs, written by hand with heavy black marker, then copied and stapled to the sides of telephone poles. They’re always the same height above the ground, always facing traffic. Their message is short:

Repent.
Let Jesus
Help You.

But every time I see a sign like this, I wonder. How many people, upon seeing such a sign, have pulled to the side of the road and made that heart-changing choice?

For me, if I see a billboard advertising something, I want to know more before I decide. I can call, or go to a website, or look for the product in the store.

I guess everyone is just supposed to know, and trust what’s being offered here, no questions asked.

But I have a question. In today’s crazy, angry world where Christians argue and bicker with one another, how am I supposed to know, let alone trust, that Jesus is the help I want or need?

As followers of the Christ and as a church family, we should be the best reason anyone sees for choosing to join us on the journey. How is your life serving as a signpost, pointing towards a loving, faithful, merciful God? Be the light others are looking for. They’ll know us by our Love. Words optional.

Monday Many, many studies show that people come to church (or any event or service) because they were invited. Ask God to show you someone whom you could invite to worship. Pray for an opportunity to do so. John 21:26-27

Tuesday Pause and reflect on the unconditional love Christ offers to each one of us, just as we are. Give thanks and rest. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Wednesday Where is there chaos in your life? Pray that God would bring peace, comfort and hope to an area of your life that feels out of control. Give thanks and rest. Isaiah 42:5-9

Thursday Who has had an influence on your faith journey? Pause and remember, and consider writing them a note of thanks. Ask God to guide your heart in being a light to others. Pass it on. Acts 2:42-47

Friday John Wesley saw value in small group meetings as a way to deepen relationships. Consider where you find relationship in your life. Thank God for this family. 1 Samuel 12:22-24

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, listen. Is the Spirit leading you in a new direction? Pray for clarity and for courage to follow faithfully. Exodus 4:10-12

Sunday As we gather this morning to worship, meditate on the words we sing in the hymns of the day. As St. Augustine observed: The one who sings, prays twice. Give thanks and lift your voice! Isaiah 42:10-11

Words of love, are works of Love. –William R. Alger


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