May the Evidence Grow

Some time back, my friend Rev. Peyton Hopkins shared with me that one of the families in his church had been audited by the IRS three times over the course of several years due to their generous giving. Apparently, extraordinarily high charitable giving is a potential red flag. This reminded Peyton of an age-old question, “If you were on trial for your faith, would there be enough evidence to convict you?”

In your case and mine, I hope there would be an abundance of evidence – evidence of our generosity, compassion, love, and forgiveness. I hope that each of us is leaving a clear trail of deep faith – not because we can earn God’s favor in any way. We can’t. I want that for us because I’ve seen how that way of life goes hand in hand with a deep sense of peace and an underlying joy that the circumstances of this world cannot shake.

I pray today that the evidence for our faith would grow. May it shine brightly simply by the way that we live.

Let us pray: Loving God, we all face moments of doubt and darkness and despair. There are times when our faith seems small in the face of the injustice and heartache of the world. I pray today, especially for the people who are going through difficult times, those who face anxiety or fears, and for those weighted down with burdens. I pray that today you would refresh us with your Spirit. Prompt us again and again to acts of kindness and mercy. Move us beyond ourselves, so that we could once again catch a glimpse of your peace, your joy, and your love. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.