https://odb.org/2024/08/01/visible-traces-of-jesus
Daniel 6:1-10 demonstrates the integrity of Daniel that despite serving the Babylonian emperors for seventy years, there was no trace of any anamolies, questionable practices, or corruption. He was clean throughout those times even though he was an exile from Judah. He treated his place of captivity like his homeland, although I am sure he dearly missed Jerusalem. Notwithstanding that he was in exile in a foreign land, he prayed to God three times a day with his window opened towards Jerusalem. He was faithful t; God the same way he was faithful to Darius then, and to Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar before him, and he would also be faithful to Cyrus of the Persian Empire after him.
We may not be perfect in who we are, whether at work or at home. But do know and be reminded that our lives leave traces behind. People will appreciate or despise us for who we are. People will respect or hate us. It is not a quest for popularity unless we are politicians. But neither should it be a challenge to be the most difficult or mean person around. We don’t have to leave behind unpleasantness and tears. Instead, we should strive to be someone responsible, dependable, trustworthy, and diligent that people we deal with respect our work and our work ethics. This is important because who we are at work and at home points others to our God, to Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. We reflect God because we are His children. So, do we want to give Christ a bad reputation by being a bad Christian?
The reminder today is that Jesus accepts us for who we are, that we are “works in progress”, that we are not perfect, and that we have sins and weaknesses. Nevertheless, we have to be mindful that who we are reflects Christ. We carry His name, His goodness, and mercy and grace. For example, we can not be unmerciful with others while professing the name of Jesus as Jesus is merciful and gracious. We can not be unforgiving when God first forgave us our sins and accepted us into His Kingdom of Grace. As much as we are to love the LORD, our God, with all of our heart, mind, soul, and strength, we need to also love our neighbours (that practically means everyone else) like ourselves.
Our lives will leave traces. Don’t leave behind a legacy of destruction, grief, and tears but leave behind a heritage of God’s love, peace, and joy!
Ronnie's Thoughts 