No Razzle Dazzle
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. Matthew 5:16
ME: I love the brilliant-colored leaves on the tree down by the road. They are magnificent this year. The tree just sort of jumps out and says, “Hey, look at me!”
JESUS: Thank you for noticing. Many people who drive by are just too caught up in their own thoughts to see nature in its finest attire.
ME: I must confess that I have been one of those people—lost in my head—but it is getting better. I have come to the conclusion that I do not want to miss anything.
JESUS: So, what is it about this tree that has captured your attention?
ME: It stands alone and the shades of red, yellow and orange are a masterpiece right from God’s palate. When you round the bend, there it is in all its glory. It is something to behold. It is like the perfect tree with a good height and nice shape.
JESUS: Yes, some trees are like that. But what is it you are trying to tell Me but can’t quite say?
ME: I enjoy watching the sun come up on this tree. It is almost a razzle-dazzle light show. There are no others around to compare with it. What am I trying to say? Ummmm…I wish I could be more like this tree.
JESUS: In what ways?
ME: I’m not a razzle-dazzle kind of person but I would like to shine more brightly for You. I would like to stand out more and display Your love for others. I feel kind of dull and drab sometimes. Without question or confusion, I want people to know I am Your child.
JESUS: What makes you think you don’t already do that? You are not going to get an “at-a-girl” every time you do a good deed or are kind to someone. Someday you will know them all and see them face to face. Not yet!
ME: Really? I guess You can tell that I do not have a great deal of confidence in this area.
JESUS: Have I ever corrected you about this?
ME: No, but there are times I have felt badly about my choices.
JESUS: Those were feelings of your own choosing.
ME: Help me to be more radiant. I don’t want glitz and glamour but rather I want people to ask, “What makes you different?” Can You do that for me?
JESUS: Together we can!