Yesterday at church we were challenged to throw out the commercialism of Christmas and let the Jesus-Lord shine through us. Everyone was given an envelope. Some had money in them, others had a task. Mine said “Buy a homeless person a meal this week.”

That got me to thinking.

If I were being graded on my ability to shine, to show Jesus to everyone I come in contact with, what would my grade be?

It’s definitely different today than it was a simple five years ago. In fact, it is remarkably better than a year ago. But is it anywhere close to where it should be?

I read this medley in Ephesians 5 last night: Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do… Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God… Carefully determine what pleases the Lord… be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.

I don’t do New Year’s resolutions. But I am doing a “the year is almost over” resolution. Maybe this Christmas will be the year when I’ll be able to shine a bit brighter than before.