God's First Missionary
Scripture Reading — Acts 17:16-28
“He himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else… God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him.”
—Acts 17:25-27
What fascinates you in God’s world? Have you ever marveled at the stars twinkling overheard? Ever been amazed how the trillions of cells in our bodies function so well together nearly all of the time? Which of the plants and animals most capture your attention?
In the ancient Greek city of Athens, Paul pointed to life and breath as evidence of the one true God, “the Lord of heaven and earth.” Life is a wonder, and God created us to marvel at life and creation. When we conclude that it must all be from God and then we worship him for it, creation’s purpose is fulfilled. Then the very breath we draw can be returned to God in praise!
It’s been said that creation is God’s first missionary. The authors of an old confession in the 1500s said, “The universe … is … like a beautiful book in which all creatures, great and small, are as letters to make us ponder the invisible things of God.” The apostle Paul, in Romans 1:20, calls these “invisible qualities” God’s “eternal power and divine nature.” Paul goes on to say that truly there is no excuse for being unaware of God.
Where will you look for God today? How will you share your thanks to him today? How will others see God in and through you, and be invited to join you in a life of praise?
Loving Father, thank you for the life and breath we have. Give us words to praise you in private and in public. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Daryl DeKlerk
Daryl DeKlerk pastors a church in Jarvis, Ontario. He is thankful for a sabbatical that enabled him to study the theme of Grace-filled Christian Witness. Daryl and his wife have three young children who keep them on their toes and on their knees in prayer.
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