The Family Name
Scripture Reading — 2 Corinthians 5:16-21
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
When you are part of a family, you represent that family. People who meet you will make assumptions about your parents, your children, and your siblings. I have three brothers. If one of them is rude, self-centered, and vulgar, you might assume that all of us boys are just as unpleasant to be around. If you meet someone from my family who is kind and loving, then hopefully you will reason that we are all like that.
As children of God, we represent the family of God, whether we are aware of it or not. The world will judge our Father based on our words, behaviors, and attitudes. Jesus challenges his followers to let their light shine into the world’s spiritual darkness. Our deeds, good or bad, beautiful or ugly, will reflect an image of the Father that others will see.
If you are a Christian, you bear the name of Christ. You represent Jesus wherever you go. The Bible goes as far as to call us “Christ’s ambassadors” to the world. Christ is making his appeal to the world through us. He sends us to share his transforming love with our neighbors, friends, relatives, coworkers—everyone we encounter on any given day. We carry the family name of Jesus wherever we go, whatever we do.
How well do you carry the name of Jesus?
Lord, may all who are living in darkness be drawn to you through the goodness shining from our lives. Give us strength and wisdom to live with integrity for your sake. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Rob Jansons
Rob Jansons is the pastor of New Hope Fellowship in Monroe, Washington, where he has served for almost twenty years. He and his wife, Sue, have been married since 1989 and have three daughters. Rob spends time each year in Calcutta, India, working with a Christian ministry to children living in slums. He enjoys hiking in the Pacific Northwest, camping with his family, reading, writing, and being a pastor.
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