Borrowed... We Need This

Startling Christianity
Jul 30 by Sam Guzman

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Jesus – Matthew 5:16

Have you ever experienced startling love? Throughout his ministry, Jesus demonstrated love that took people by surprise. He touched the untouchables, forgave adulteresses, ate dinner with tax collectors, talked to Gentile “dogs,” and took time for those who others wanted to send away. All of these things were shocking and unusual, and people took notice. The proud hated him for it, and the humble loved him for it.

Jesus commands us to show the same kind of unexpected love to others. He gives us several examples of this kind of love in the Sermon on the Mount: going the extra mile, loving your enemies, and turning the other cheek, among others. The point in all the examples he gave was that each was out of the ordinary, even extreme. Christ wanted his followers to act in such a way that people would take notice. So they could earn favor with God or men? Hardly. Unexpected, surprising, jaw-dropping love brings glory to God. What a difference it would make in the world, and what doors for the gospel would be opened, if Christians started living in this way.

I’d like to encourage you this week to look for a way to show startling love to at least one person who isn’t expecting it. It will mean taking your eyes off of yourself, your busy schedule, and your agenda for the day, lifting up your eyes, and noticing those around you. What needs can you meet? How can you bless those around you? How can you encourage someone? Be creative. I assure you, there will be plenty of opportunities. Let your light shine, and bring glory to God.