Focus 40 Day 37

Pointing to Christ

Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” —Matthew 3:13–17

The mission team spent several days making repairs to a home damaged by the recent hurricane. John and his family could not believe how wonderful the house looked when the team finished. With tears in his eyes, John expressed how astounded he was that a group of people would work so hard to help strangers.

Then the mission team members were able to share the gospel with John. They explained that while they could help meet his temporary physical needs by repairing his home, only God could meet his spiritual needs. John came to understand that it was not just the efforts of the team members he should feel grateful for. He also learned to praise the great, compassionate God who had sent those who helped.

Often our actions speak louder than our words. At such times, we realize again that we can point the world to Christ. What will you do today to show someone God’s love?

Father, let me be a beacon of love in life’s storm today, and point someone to Jesus Christ.

Belinda Elliott is a writer who lives in Chesapeake, Virginia.