Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they might see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
A little over ten years ago, in the backseat of my mother's car, I made a conscious decision to act upon the thoughts I had probably been wrestling with mentally for weeks, if not months. On June 13th, 2001, I became a Christian. I was baptized on March 6th, 2005, slightly under four years later, along with a small group of fellow church members. Though it wasn't an instant change, my life certainly began to shift in focus after those events.
Coming from a divorced home, I struggled constantly with relating to people and with expressing myself. I won't lie and say that becoming a Christian instantly changed that, but as time progressed, the loving environment of Christians in my church and the change in my own thinking and views on life allowed me to get past many of the obstacles in my past that had at one time chained me down.
After having my life turned upside down in a wonderful way by Christianity, I feel that it's my job, my privilege, even, to share the light that came in my darkness with others. However, my philosophy, as St. Francis of Assisi once said is; "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary, use words." To me, a kind word, a friendly smile, little favors, and a number of other small things can speak volumes more than shouting religion at the top of your lungs to those who may not want to hear it.
So, my challenge to you is this; sometime this week at home, work, school, or while out and about, do some small random act of kindness for someone you don't know. It would be great to hear your experiences. Good luck!
