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TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:15-16

Read: Matthew 5:14-16
Listen: Matthew 5

TODAY’S MESSAGE

In one of Jesus’s most famous teachings, he tells those listening that they are the light of the world. He encourages them to let their light shine so others see their good deeds and glorify God. This week, we look at the three siblings of one family from the fourth century who demonstrated the love of Jesus through word and deed in extraordinary ways. We will see how Macrina cared for orphaned children, Gregory acted as the first recorded abolitionist, and Basil cared for the sick by establishing the first public hospital. Their examples of gospel tandem helped aid in the growth of Christianity in their day.

There are often two perceptions of Christians today. Some view Christians as old-fashioned, judgmental, opinionated and hypocritical. While others view Christians as honest, faithful, kind, loving and caring. Both of these perceptions come from the words and deeds of actual Christians. Like Macrina, Basil and Gregory—we have the opportunity to shine the light of Jesus to the world through our words and deeds. May God be glorified and honored by our gospel tandem.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Reflect on how people might perceive you as a Christian. Would they group you in the negative or the positive group? Which of the words above do you suspect your family members, friends, classmates or co-workers would use to describe you? Wherever you land today, know God’s grace is greater than your shortcomings and invite him to help you reflect Christ’s heart to those around you.

2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.

November is BIBLE MEDITATION. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.