Friday, October 1, 2010

Life as a candle

I have heard it said that we begin dying from the moment we are born. Nothing can stop the aging process. Our life is very much like a candle. At birth, the candle of our life is lit, and once the flame starts, there is nothing that can be done to extend the life of that candle. Slowly, steadily, over time the flame burns away the wax.

I have also heard it said that time seems to go faster as you get older. Our days fill up with more and more responsibilities. Our schedules get busier. Life may seem to go by quickly because we rarely check how much candle we have left — and the moments that we do check, we realize that a big chunk has burned away since the last time we looked.

The Apostle John begins his Gospel with these verses: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. (John 1:1-5, NKJV)

As believers, we are called to be a light in the darkness. Matthew 5:14-16 reads, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

I challenge you to examine your life right now. Is it consumed with daily busyness and distractions from the mandate you have on your life as a Christian? These verses in Matthew are not suggestions. You ARE the light of the world - without shining your light, the world will remain in darkness. The world must also see your good works so the Father will be glorified. Neither of these things will happen unless we as Christians make a conscious and proactive effort to fulfill our call to reach the world.

Global Infusion regularly goes to some very dark places in the world. America may have its problems, but many of them pale in comparison to the spiritual darkness, abject poverty, human injustice, and domination of false religions and cults in the countries where we work.

Global Infusion continually reaches thousands of people every year with the life-saving power of Jesus Christ, by spreading His Gospel of salvation as well as meeting their physical needs. You can be a light by supporting us in prayer, giving financially, or joining us on an Infusion Adventure missions trip.