goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

So, What Do You Do?

By Linda Tancs

Everyone inevitably encounters the question, “So, what do you do?” In the physical realm, you have your “day job.” Maybe it’s performing world-class brain surgery or keeping the home fires burning. In the spiritual realm, though, we all have the same job description—you’re an ambassador for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), an envoy of love (Ephesians 5:1-2). Discipleship isn’t just something that happened over 2,000 years ago and now we just fondly recall the actions of a dedicated group. We’re the hands and feet of God in this world, made in His image (Genesis 1:26-27) to do good works (Matthew 5:16).

 

A popular expression exhorts us to “preach at all times; use words only when necessary.” The gist of it is that actions speak louder than words. Sometimes, the best sermon you’ll hear is the one that you see.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

The Brightness of God

By Linda Tancs

Christmas is the glorious season of light, a celebration of Christ’s birth, the Light of the World (John 8:12). As the vigil of Christmas nears, many of you will gather around a Christmas tree, long a symbol of salvation and eternal life. Candle decorations, in particular, represent the light of Christ. In some cultures, candles placed in the windows or along driveways (luminarias) served historically as a guide for priests on their way to evening visits during the season.

St. John Chrysostom reminded congregants in the fourth century that Christ’s mission in humanity was to replace the night and darkness with the light of salvation. ‘Tis the season, then, to remember that God is light; in Him there is no darkness (1 John 1:5-7). Let His Word be a lamp to your feet and a light to your path (Psalm 119:105). As you walk in the Light of hope, peace, joy and love, you’ll serve as an example for others to experience God’s goodness, faithfulness and mercy (Matthew 5:16).

Merry Christmas!