This incident made me stop and pause this morning as I looked out over the site of the fire. There are times when the consequences of our actions can be quite severe. An error in judgment about the severity of the wind yesterday resulted in a fire spreading out of control. We are grateful that the consequences were as limited as what they were.
In our day-to-day lives we make many decisions. Many of these decisions are small and inconsequential. For instance, will I have orange juice or grape juice for breakfast? Other decisions may impact our lives more dramatically. Should I marry this person?Do I accept the promotion being offered? Should I change change jobs? Should I relocate to another state or another country? These are major decision which greatly impact our lives. I hope we prayerfully discern God's will in such matters.
What are the consequences of our actions when we choose to walk in the flesh rather than in the Spirit? Do the words we say in anger or in gossip create deep cuts and subsequent scars in the lives of other people? Do our uncharitable actions cause heartache and discontent for others? Do we influence people positively or negatively? Are we building up the Kingdom of God faithfully?
I encourage you to reflect upon your own faith journey. Are you guided by faith? Does your love for God compel you to live righteously? It matters how we live. Be a beacon of light to someone today!
You are the salt of the earth and the light of the world.
(See Matthew 5: 13-16)