by Desiree Bustamante

Let Christ’s love burn strongly in you to shine through the world’s darkness.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud Link.

“No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”
Matthew 5:15-17 New Living Translation

These days news broadcasts are filled with devastating fires, unsurpassed tropical storms, broken economies, divisive political rhetoric and COVID-19 reports. Some news programs have added segments by a few journalists who only report on uplifting events, stories that feature people engaging in acts of kindness and thoughtful service to neighbors and strangers alike.

While I enjoy these stories, I’ve noticed that they are told as though those attributes were a miraculous occurrence in our world today.  I trust that, among those of us who call Jesus our Lord and Savior, our good deeds are shining examples revealing our hope amid all the decay and disrepair of our world.

I pray that when God lights His fire under you to help or encourage someone, you listen to His urgent call and do it! Our world needs to see the light of hope within you that points the way to a heavenly Father who deserves all praise and honor. His blessings are countless as the sand and His love is unlimited and unending for the world and for you.

“Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.”
Romans 12:9-13 New Living Translation

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church Colorado Springs, Colorado