Leaving A Mark!

Various individuals have left their mark in life throughout the history of mankind. Perhaps we would note that some have done this by noble means while others in dishonorable or shameful ways. We might even wonder regarding the mark we could someday leave behind when our life here on earth is through. Someone has urged, “As you go through life, leave your mark, not a stain.” [source: calendar quote]

It may not surprise us when we notice the stains some have left behind in this world. However, it is sad when such is noticed within the church. Peter made reference to some who counted “it pleasure to revel in the daytime” and referred to them as “blots and blemishes” even though they feasted among the church. ( 2 Peter 2:13) Jude also made a similar observation. ( Jude 24) Such should not be the mark of us as Christians. Since Jesus has provided the means for His church to be “without spot or wrinkle”, but rather “holy and without blemish” ( Ephesians 5:27) we should seriously consider the mark our life leaves in its wake.

What ought to be the mark among us and the mark to aim to leave behind?
Jesus exhorted His disciples…
“(34) A new commandment I give to you, that you LOVE ONE ANOTHER: just AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, you also are to LOVE ONE ANOTHER. (35) BY THIS ALL PEOPLE WILL KNOW THAT YOU ARE MY DISCIPLES, if you have LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER.” ( John 13:35 ESV)

Genuine LOVE is to be a mark of being disciples of Jesus. LOVE for the Lord, for the truth, for one another, and even for our enemies ( Matthew 5:44) will ultimately leave a powerful mark where we have walked and lived out our life.

The LOVE of Christ was powerfully displayed through a blood stained cross. However, it is His LOVE that has left its abiding mark on those who believe. Having been called to “walk in love” ( Ephesians 5:2) let us live in such a way that His LOVE -- working in and through us -- will leave its mark on those around us.

Have a great day LOVINGLY LIVING TO BE SEEN AS ONE OF HIS!
Carl

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