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by David
Phelps
"Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person." - Mother Teresa
September, 1995
I have a T-shirt that says I'm a Star Trek fan. I appreciate the comments I receive whenever I wear it; I've never been afraid of what people might say. I also have a coffee mug that says I'm a member of a local Public Radio station. I take it to work with me, and a number of people have asked me about it. I always tell them what the slogan on the front means and where I got it; I've never been ashamed or reluctant. I'm sure you have some similar personal item that prompts comments or questions. If we can talk about worldly things this boldly, how much more should we proclaim our greatest possession -- God's love and grace? Recently, I noticed that a coworker had brought his Bible and an inspirational book to work; they were sitting out for everyone to see.Not long ago, I took our daughter Monica to day care while I was dressed for work. She told one of the other children my ID badge said "Daddy." I'm proud of her, and proud to be her "Daddy." I'm even more proud when I can see myself in her. We inherit numerous characteristics from our parents: My father is fairly tall, and so am I, and now Monica is tall for her age. My father sneezes when the sun gets in his eyes; so do I, and so does Monica. More important, we also inherit our beliefs and values from our parents. This is another way others can see our parents in us. How much more wonderful it is when they can see our Heavenly parent in us.
"By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples." (John 15:8 RSV.)