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IMPRESSIONS

READ Revelation 14:6-13

“…they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”

• Revelation 14:13b (NIV)

The athletic field of a nearby elementary school was covered with frost as I jogged across it one chilly morning. When I glanced back, impressions from my running shoes had been firmly imprinted on the crinkly grass behind me.

Likewise, as we travel through life, we make impressions on those around us. These impressions, expressed in our deeds, not only matter for today, but will follow us into the hereafter … for better or for worse.

When I first became a Christian, my discipler taught me to always have my spiritual antennae up, even when doing something routine, like shopping at the grocery store. We never know where the Holy Spirit might lead. A kind word, softly spoken in the checkout line, might be just enough to help someone out of their funk. Returning a lost cellphone or wallet to the Customer Service Desk might restore someone’s faith in humanity. Perhaps we’d have an opportunity to help an elderly person reach an item on an upper shelf, putting a smile on their face.

Little things matter to God. “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” (Luke 16:10, NIV). Let’s ensure the impressions we make bring glory to God and benefit others.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

We only have one chance to make a good first impression.

Prayer:  Lord, please help me to have my spiritual antennae up at all times, so I can serve as you lead.

Rick Stockwell (Connecticut)

Prayer Focus:  Be led by the Spirit.