Called to Make a Difference
In God’s creation mandate (Genesis 1:28), members of the human race are instructed to labor, and make a living. St. Paul, in the New Testament, goes as far as to imply that anyone not willing to work should not be entitled to eat (II Thessalonians 3:10).
God’s children, in addition to their obligation to labor, make a living, and support themselves and their families, are also challenged and expected to make a difference wherever they are.
Although Holy Scripture is clear on that, such imperative is also placed upon God’s people from some most unexpected sources as well. Notice, for instance, what the late existentialist writer and philosopher, Albert Camus, had written in this regard: “We stand in need of Christians who shall plant themselves squarely in the bloody face of history and make a difference.” How are we responding to such reasonable expectation?
While there are countless ways one can make a positive difference in the world, from where one stands, let me focus on a very practical way, following a pattern already established by our Lord during His own earthly ministry.
I am referring to the sharing our ideas, values, and our very selves with others who can outlive us, and even transcend our own effectiveness for Christ and His Kingdom.
Let us never fear investing ourselves in others, even if they may surpass us in what they accomplish. The Jewish Midrash offers a vivid and valuable analogy, when it declares that “many candles can be kindled from one candle without diminishing it.”
There will be much we shall always perform alone, in seeking to make a difference sometime, someplace. But there is also a lot we can attempt through others, and in company with others. Those who spend time with people have the advantage of knowing their fellows well, and in a more personal way, thus being able to ascertain the strengths, the abilities, the unique personality those persons can bring to any task. In that way, they can select individuals they feel comfortable with, and invest part of themselves into those lives. This may be a form of discipleship, mentoring, guidance, or spiritual friendship; a way of multiplying one’s influence
in society.
People normally respond affirmatively to those who show genuine interest in them; persons who can challenge their mind, their emotions, and their wills into attempting something great for God and His Kingdom, via the avenues of service already available through a local congregation, or some other worthy medium, or cause.
Affecting others positively, leading them into meaningful action, is a healthy way of spreading our influence, thus impacting society through the salutary difference we can make in them!
Chuck Colson wisely remarked that, “Christianity must be an all-embracing system of thought that gives us a perspective from which to view every part of life: family, church, work, politics, science, art, and culture.” This is a great vision anyone can easily share!
