Shine like the stars in the Universe
MINISTER'S MOMENT
CHARLOTTE AUSTIN

"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life." (Philippians 2:14- 16a)

When Benjamin Franklin decided to interest the people of Philadelphia in street lighting, he hung a beautiful lantern on the end of a long bracket attached to the front of his house. Cole D. Robinson writes in World Horizons that Franklin "kept the glass brightly polished and carefully lit the wick each evening at the approach of dusk. Anyone walking on the dark street could see this light from a long way off and came under its warm glow." What was the result?

"It wasn't long before Franklin's neighbors began placing lamps outside their homes. Soon the entire city realized the value of street lighting and followed his example with enthusiasm."

The same power of example works for the Christian, and Paul's words in Philippians 2 apply to every believer. The world is affected by what we say and do when we set a good example.

Some of you are the only Christian in the place where you work. Others of you stand alone as believers in your homes or classrooms.

If we live according to the clear light of God's Word, God will dispel the darkness, the Savior will be pleased, and others will be attracted to the light.

Lord, may we not only follow good examples, but may we also be good examples. Amen
Rev. Charlotte Austin
McCary's Chapel
United Methodist Church