Pictures of You

Linda Bailey is currently in the Philippines leading a short-term mission trip.  For two weeks she will be sharing some of her favourite REAP posts.  Here is the REAP she has chosen for today…

We must not limit God to only being able to work through Christians. I see pictures of God through all people and all things He has created.

Acts 23.23-35

Reference: v.28 “I wanted to know why they were accusing him, so I brought him to their Sanhedrin.” (NIV Bible)

Explore: I have a friend who lives interstate. We are only able to see each other every couple of years and so our friendship is maintained through long-distance phone calls. When I look at our relationship I see a number of reasons why it could have broken apart. For a number of years we have lived thousands of kilometers apart and while my life revolves around my faith, my friend does not profess a belief in God. Often when people move away and you hold different opinions it is difficult to maintain friendships and yet I know my life would not be as rich if I did not have my long-distance friend in it. She is so full of life, she brings creativity and imagination to every single day and she is one of the most supportive and encouraging friends I have. While she may not believe in God, I see His creativity come to life in her.

Application: We can often experience God in many different ways and through many different people. In this Bible passage Paul is being persecuted by the Jews and yet it is a Roman Commander who is showing him true justice. The Commander protects Paul and sends him to Caesarea to save him from those who were plotting to kill him.
God is present through all of creation. We must not limit Him to only being able to work through Christians. I see pictures of God through all people and all things He has created. Where can you see God today?

Prayer: Lord, you are the God of all Creation. I am in awe of all You have done. May my eyes be opened to see Your presence in the world today. Amen.