Be an example to the world

Today's readings: Deuteronomy 4:1,5-9; Matthew 5:17-19

The first reading is very interesting. It seems like Moses is telling the Israelites to follow the commands so that other people will see them and call them wise and intelligent. 

Then he tells then that they can't forget what they have seen and experienced. It is important for their life to remember all that God has done.

It sounds weird to talk highly of myself, but I have tried to be a good example throughout my life. I've always considered how an action will look to others-not so they will accept me or because I don't know what I would do otherwise, but because I have always felt that as a Christian I have to be an example...and I want to be a good example. If I'm going to be a good example, then I think it is important to keep in mind how my actions are seen by others.

Throughout my life, many people (a number of them people that others feel are hard to get along with) have shared that they appreciate my behavior and believe that I am showing them a life that they want to model. I believe the fun that I have had through the years, and the genuine friendships that I have made are due to this desire to make sure my actions reflect who I really am and who I want to continue to strive to be.

I think that is what Moses was saying. And if I forget all of things that happened to the people that came before me I might begin to become more selfish and live according to the flesh instead of my spirit.

Jesus says that he does not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. The law that was established many years before Jesus is still in place today. It gives us a way to check our behavior and actions and align them with the truths of God.

Today, as you are reminded to act according to the law and to be an example to the world...let us remember that it is the law and love of Christ that we are showing! Lean on His presence and allow it to flow outward.