December 2002
by Alyssa Ruzicka
Do your parents ever remind you of how God has called us to be set apart from the world? Well, my parents seem to do that quite often. Whenever your parents say that, it always ruins whatever you are leaning towards, scheming for, or pressing to. Once they say that, you know you are gonna lose. At first, when you don't get what you want prior to this conversation, it is tough. But when you think about it, it is really true!
There is a verse that states this exact topic:
Matthew 5:13-16, You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is trampled under foot. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under a bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Looking at this verse is encouraging, yet it's complicated when you try to supplement it into your life. It definitely makes you think. It means there is a definite separation; there must be some difference between us and the world. If we strive to be Godly, people will notice a distinction, a nonconforming aspect in your life that contrasts the world. This is so powerful, but what if they don't see a difference?? You look just the same as the world, or worse. What would they think (believer or unbeliever)? No one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes, but we should try to reflect Christ in what we do. After all, why do we claim to be Christians, if we are not intent upon being Christ-like? I don't mean to discourage anyone; I think it is more of a mindset to attain than an appearance to be looking for.
Happy New Year, and let me know what you think about these articles. J Alyssa