We had great fun with balloons in church on Sunday! The balloons acted as an illustration of difference - a balloon that hasn't been blown up that is small, easily overlooked, unremarkable. This is compared to a blown up balloon that is large, shiny, beautiful, noticeable.
The passage we were looking at was from Matthew’s gospel where Jesus describes us as salt and light; two things that make a difference. The passage comes just after the beatitudes where Jesus outlines his topsy-turvey values where the things deemed unimportant and unvalued are described as Godly.
It is clear that ‘difference’ is a key part of our faith. Jesus has different values to those of the world and we are called to be different to indicate those values and to point to God. Our challenge therefore is to embrace the characteristics of God - goodness, kindness, gentleness, love - that are so often different to those we encounter in our world, both to bring those much needed qualities into the lives of others, and also to point to our God who embodies those qualities.
Jesus’ instruction is clear:
“Don’t hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds glow for all to see, so that they will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:15-16
May we know God's help and strength as we try.
Comments