Listen

Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news about him spread throughout the whole countryside. He taught in their synagogues and was praised by everyone.

Luke 4:14-15

Think

This past December we lost Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a prominent figure in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, as well as advocate for human rights worldwide. Archbishop Tutu’s life exemplifies how one can change the world when focusing first on doing good at home and in the community. Raised in the unjust society of a divided South Africa, Tutu fought for the much-needed change in his home country.

Similarly, Christ shows us that making an impact does not necessarily require traveling the globe—we can start right where we are. Jesus did not have to travel far to make a difference in the lives of others, and the world was changed because of his ministry.

When we follow Christ’s example of loving others and fighting for justice, we can make a big impact in our communities.

Milligan Burroughs

Pray

God of all,

Thank you for sending examples of how to make an impact on the world around me.

Help me to open my eyes to look for the example that Christ gave to me to learn how to love those around me well.

Amen.

Go

We are one in the Spirit;
we are one in the Lord.
And we pray that all unity
may one day be restored.
And they’ll know we are Christians
by our love, by our love.
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love!

from “They’ll Know We Are Christians” by Peter Scholtes (1966)