Reflection Makes the Difference

The Minnesota State Fair takes place in August.  Many people enjoy going to the Fair because it’s a fun place to go.  Some people enjoy sampling the delicious food that is found in abundance on the fair grounds.  Others enjoy participating in the variety of activities.  Still others, like to sit and watch people. However, there are some people who go to the Fair because they have something to display.  Their display may include produce from a vegetable garden, goodies that are baked to luscious-looking perfection, an art or a craft that shows diligence and patience, or a well-groomed animal.

One aspect that is common to all people who display the fruit of their labor in such a setting is the aspect of reflection.  The work they do not only reveals the time and effort that went into the project, but it tells something about the artist.  For example, a fine mahogany bookcase will show the creativity of the artist.  The design will identify the attention the artist has given in the intricate detail.  The exquisite fine finish will suggest the patience and endurance of the artist.  All aspects of the end product will reflect on the one who conceived and completed the project.

It is interesting that God wants our lives to be a reflection of His glory.  Whatever you and I do should be a reflection of Him as a person.  When people look at us, they ought to see Jesus.  After the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, the Biblical text says, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13).  The reflection was obvious.  How did they reflect Jesus?  I believe it was through their actions.  People could see the love of Jesus these men had in their hearts.  They could see the gentleness with which these men served people.  It was obvious that their lives reflected Jesus and this reflection made all the difference.

Is Jesus reflected through your life?  When people look at you do they see you—or, do they see the gentleness of the Savior?  I encourage you to make the words of the Apostle Paul your challenge.  He said, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (I Corinthians 10:31).  When you function in this way you will always reflect Jesus to the world around you.