WEEK 37 – DAY 2

SHINE LIKE STARS

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. . . Philippians 2:14-16a (NIV)

We are blessed to know a handful of people who seem to do everything without complaining or arguing. They delight to do the unseen, unrewarded, behind-the-scenes tasks at church. They usually aren’t found on the platform on Sunday, but they may be found repairing it or affixing extensions to it for the big production at Christmas or Easter. They may not teach a Sunday School class, but they make sure the chairs are in order and there’s plenty of cream and sugar for the coffee. These are not the people lauded as extremely “spiritual” by others; but without them, those in the public eye might crumble. We have found these friends to be pure and simple in the sense of leading uncomplicated lives. Their smiles have brightened our cloudy days as the stars illuminate the sky. Their willingness to do whatever God places in their path illustrates the word of God to everyone who comes in touch with them. They “preach” volumes without ever speaking publicly. In the workplace this person stands out as the one who tackles an extra task without trying to talk his way out of it or complaining about it all day long. He quietly continues working while his co-workers are spewing out everything that is wrong with the company, the boss, or other employees. He is careful to choose words that bless rather than curse; and if he does have a concern, he takes it with respect to the proper authority. This is a rare person, and he shines like a brilliant star. He has an excellent opportunity to witness to others as they note his “strange” behavior. We are blessed to know people that shine like stars, and we firmly believe the Lord will say to them, “Well, done, my good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21, 23).

Father, help us to complain less and serve more. Help us to shine forth in a crowd as one of Your lights. As the old song says, “Let others see Jesus in me.” Let us love more, laugh more, and judge less.