Picture Perfect

Between worship services today, we had a photographer take pictures of member to put into a directory. It was amazing how quickly she did them. I think it took about a minute to get us posed correctly and then it was done. I find it amazing that in a blink of an eye, our image is recorded, possibly for decades, centuries, or beyond, should the Lord tarry. Sometimes images can be manipulated, but in general, when the picture is taken, that is what people will see. Did you ever think about what your image might mean to those around you? The biggest question is, when they consider your image, imprint of life, is the first thing that comes to mind a God fearing Christian? If they would be surprised to know that, something is already way off base. When they consider your presence, do they see someone that loves others... including their enemies? Do they see some one who is filled with passion for God and His word? If there is no desire to truly grow in faith through a deep understanding of the Bible, our image will probably be getting quite blurry. It might be time to step back and consider what that image looks like to others. When people look at you, do they see compassion for the lost, the sick, the hurting, etc.? When the world looks at you, do they see honesty, integrity, and faithfulness? It is not how you act around other people that really tells the true measure of a person, but rather how you act when no one else is around to see you. We may act well enough on Sunday as we gather before the Lord in worship, but what do people see later in the day? Would some soul searching for the truth be confident that they see it in you? If not, why? So, why is the image we leave behind so important? What we do may be the most powerful part of our testimony. Very few people have ever been debated into the kingdom of God. If we were always conscious of the fact that people are watching our lives to see if they match God’s word, wouldn’t we think harder about what we do? We are part of one church. We, together with others that walk by faith, are to be a living representative into the world. Our image, action, work is not a means of earning salvation, but the true representation of the heart. Does your heart give a true reflection of your living faith. Father, I know that I am not picture perfect and that my life needs to be developed by You each day. Let me shine for you. Amen