Christians sometimes conceal rather than reveal Christ by conduct unbefitting "a member of God's household." We act "like children squatting in the city squares," self-centered and full of complaints (Lk 7:32). We often make the Christian life look like a drag, fulfilling our "Sunday obligation," doing only the minimum, out of so-called love for God.
Additionally, Christians have trouble with their mouths (see Jas 3:8). It's questionable whether we gossip any less than non-Christians. In many ways, we're just about as worldly as unbelievers. How many churches raise money through gambling and selling beer!
The Lord calls us to project a different image — His image. We must "hunger and thirst for holiness" (Mt 5:6) and in every aspect of our conduct be holy as Jesus is holy (1 Pt 1:15, 16). Christians and churches that are not holy but lukewarm cause Him to become nauseated (Rv 3:16). Let's live for God with no compromises.
| PRAYER: | Lord, have mercy and forgive me. |
| PROMISE: | "God's wisdom is vindicated by all who accept it." –Lk 7:35 |
| PRAISE: | St. Andrew's companions in martyrdom included bishops, priests, men and women, married and unmarried, children and young people, and the elderly. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College