Leaving Your Mark

Earlier this summer, we heard a pastor tell the story about an experience he had with his young son many years ago.

The two of them were in their backyard together – it was a gorgeous day, with beautiful blue skies, and just a few clouds. At one point, they laid down on the grass and were staring up into the sky – enjoying the beauty of God’s creation

As they looked up into the sky, the son noticed several white streaks across the sky, and asked his dad: “Who scratched the sky?”

The father went on to explain that what his son thought were scratches in the sky – those white streaks across the sky – were not caused by someone, but rather the vapor trails left by a passing jet.

This pastor reminded us that we are all like that passing jet. We all leave behind a mark in life – and it is up to each of us to decide what that mark will be.

In Matthew 5, Jesus encouraged his followers to let their good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise our Heavenly Father.  In Ephesians 4-6 and Colossians 3, the apostle Paul has written some good advice for us to follow if we want to have a positive impact on those around us.

May we be those people who allow God to continue to be at work in our heart, so that we in turn can have a significant impact with our family, in our community, and where we work.

Until next week,

Joel & Debbie

PRAY WITH US:
The first week of school is completed at ICS in Hong Kong, and Debbie is encouraged by the good start to the school year with her students.  Pray that Debbie and her students would both adjust to each other and come to understand and relate to one another as the school year begins.
Joel is scheduled to arrive back in Hong Kong on Thursday this week.  Pray for God’s enabling as he re-adjusts to Hong Kong’s climate and pace of life, and as he re-connects with pastors and church leaders in China.