Articles
WHAT DO PEOPLE SEE IN ME?
It was my first year of counseling at a Christian camp in Connecticut. I was young, but
intent on living my life for the Lord and here was the opportunity to “let my light shine!” But it
wasn’t until midway through the first week that the truth of my influence on others was driven
home. I don’t remember all the circumstances surrounding the situation, but I recall another
counselor taking me aside and letting me know that one of my young campers was concerned
that I wasn’t “feeling well”. I think what he was trying to say was that for whatever reason, I was
not my usual energetic, enthusiastic self. I think what took me by surprise was that a young
person would even notice such. It wasn’t that I had been unkind or shouted at a camper. I just
wasn’t “living” the way to which he had become accustomed.
So, the question becomes, what do people really see in me? I know I use the verse often, but
I can’t help but think this may be our biggest challenge. “Test yourselves to see if you are in the
faith; examine yourselves” (2 Cor. 13:5). Until we honestly and sincerely examine ourselves
according to the Lord, we may continue blindly along life’s way, unwilling to make the changes
necessary to be the true salt and light of this world for Jesus Christ! And until we see ourselves
through the eyes of those who are around us daily, we may never realize our shortcomings.
And, lest we get the idea that people don’t really notice, they do so much more than we
realize. I got to visit with one of the building workers this past week, just in passing. As we
visited, he mentioned that he had seen me showing my grandson the construction site from our
yard. I was just surveying the work being done and pointing out what the workers were doing.
They were supposed to be busy and not paying attention to us, but this worker noticed, and in
that short moment formed an opinion!
Yes, our lives are on display daily, whether we like it or not! What are people seeing in us?
Are they seeing the light of Jesus Christ or are they seeing a reflection of the world in which we
live? No, they aren’t the same! Christ demands a greater and brighter life that points to Him in
all things. Until we show that light daily, then we may never have the opportunity to share with
others the wonderful gospel of salvation! ~ P. Mowrer
