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I tawt I taw – God’s influence.
Today’s verse is the culmination of the passage we began yesterday. Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem (sound familiar?). As he is entering Jericho (about 15 miles from Jerusalem) his attention is caught by a blind beggar who is healed because of his faith. This same story is told in Mark 10:46-52, where we learn that the man’s name is Bartimaeus. Mark says Jesus is leaving Jericho and Luke says he is entering the city. Which is it? Mark was probably referring to the ancient city of Jericho which was mostly abandoned, whereas Luke was probably referring to the “new” Jericho which had been more recently built just south of the old city. Both gospels relate that he immediately followed Jesus and in Luke we find that he was praising God. This testimony of his influenced the people who saw it.
This is something I struggle with on a regular basis. Yes, I follow Jesus. Yes, I praise God. But sometimes I’m not sure if I do these things well enough or openly enough to influence others. The way we live our lives should be a testimony that influences others. We should praise God every chance we get and not be hesitant because non-believers may hear us. We should want them to hear so that they may be influenced. In today’s politically correct world that can be difficult, but still we should endeavor to “be the church” and proclaim God’s glory.
Dan thanks for the reminder. I don’t praise God enough for who He is and the blessings He has given me. I agree that we need to let others hear us praise God. What I don’t want is to be that lady who says PRAISE THE LORD for the most random things and at the wrong time and irritates those around them.
I am leaning more and more on God for everything in my life. I find that the more I do that, the more that I pray, the more that I need to do that and the more that I need to pray.
For all things big and small, for all things good and bad, for all people known and strangers, I pray in thanksgiving and hope. Thank you Lord for all you do, yesterday, today adn tomorrow.
Many years ago a neighbor said to me, “If you know God and the glory of his grace……it will show on your face.” I think of that often but not often enough. Simply a smile or a random act of kindness may give someone a glimpse of the Grace of God.
You and Christina are radiant examples of how actions bless others. The Coffee Ministry is in the best hands ever! Can’t wait to come back to Cumberland and enjoy the pastries!