You Are the Light of the World

There is a funny story about a woman who read that dogs were healthier if fed a tablespoon of cod liver oil each day. So, each day she followed the same routine. She chased her dog until she caught it, wrestled it down, and managed to force the fishy remedy down the dog’s throat.

Then one day, in the middle of this taxing effort, the bottle was accidentally knocked over. With a sigh, she let go of the dog so she could wipe up the mess. To her surprise the dog trotted over to the puddle and begin lapping up what had been spilled. The dog loved the cod liver oil! It was just the owner’s method of application to which the dog objected!

This story reminds me that there is often more than one way to go about things. Sometimes people try to use scare tactics to get other people to believe in Jesus. They talk about hell and damnation – and most often people are turned off. On the other hand, when we love people and serve them and listen to them, our faith shines through in beautiful ways. It is not Jesus that people most often object to – it is the method of sharing our faith that makes all the difference!

Let us pray: Loving God, you have called us to be light of the world. We remember today that it is through love and sacrifice that we are drawn closer to you. And it is through love and sacrifice that others most clearly see your love and are drawn to your message of hope. As we serve as your light, may your peace and healing grace rest upon us. Amen.