41 Holy Housekeeping 6 - Trim the Bushes

Holy Housekeeping 6 - Trim the Bushes

Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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 5:15-16 ESV
 
Just as overgrown shrubberies may obscure the location of a house from visitors, each of us may have erected hedges to prevent others from seeing what is within us. Keeping our faith private can be tempting, since it may be disconcerting to reveal personal beliefs that are at variance with others.  We may feel vulnerable, exposed, and open to ridicule as people view us as being “different”. Or, we might simply be worried that others will be uncomfortable, being confronted with views that differ from their own. 
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But, Jesus urges us to not hide our light under a bushel. "…Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16 NIV). We might wonder if letting others see our good deeds seems boastful. Yet, our underlying motivation is key to the distinction. As others see the Lord working through us, they will give glory to Him. St. Francis of Assisi explained our mission well with these words, “Preach the gospel at all times and if necessary, use words.”  Our actions do speak louder than words. We ought to be ready to share the gospel to anyone who asks, with actions and words.