I recently read an article pointing out we are the difference-maker representing God to those just getting to know Jesus, or folks who can’t yet understand why we set aside what we have for the benefit of “church”. Think about it this way: Most folks acknowledge, or are at least aware of Jesus at Christmas time, and then again at Easter. So out of 52 weeks in a year, let’s be generous and say that 6 of those weeks God at least enters the picture. What about the other 46 weeks? During Advent/Christmas we learned the importance of reGifting Hope, Peace, Love, Joy and Faith. Those ideas weren’t meant to be packed away with our Christmas decorations! They are to be practiced so others see that Jesus came to be present with them daily, not just to celebrate with wrapping paper and candy a couple weeks a year. Ephesians 4:1b-3 (GNT) 4… live a life that measures up to the standard God set when he called you. 2 Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another. 3 Do your best to preserve the unity which the Spirit gives by means of the peace that binds you together.
