Tuesday Tidings, Aug 4, 2026

Dearest Members of Bethlehem,

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your father in heaven.” -Matthew 5:16

Sometimes people make me wonder!

I saw a beautiful tree recently; it might have been a White Oak tree, and in the side of that beautiful expression of God’s creative power was carved a heart, inside of which was two sets of initials. I can’t remember the initials exactly, but I am sure you can imagine what I am talking about.

Why would someone do something like that? I am not being flippant; I am posing a serious question. The person who took the time to carve that image into that particular tree wanted the world to know that they were in love, entirely devoted to another. So much so, they were willing to leave a lasting mark on the world.

Sometimes people make me wonder!

I saw a kind person recently help an elder with their meal. In fact, they patiently portioned spoonfuls of food and tenderly placed the morsels into their loved one’s mouth. In this gracious, patient expression of care, were the echoes and resonances of the person’s faith.

Their perspective, their commitment, it was absolutely informed by their devotion to their loved one and to Christ. Such a moment leaves a lasting mark on the world. Certainly, this person quietly and humbly let their love and devotion be known, but they also let their “light shine.”

It’s an important distinction: the individual patiently feeding their spouse didn’t simply draw attention to themselves; in their caring act, they pointed beyond themselves to the progenitor and source of all love, the one true God that we confess and worship.

It’s a good thing to consider the lasting impressions that we make, and the messages that they send.

Question for reflection: Who has made a lasting impact upon you? How did they do it? Could you learn something from their faithful approach?

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Dan

Generative God, you have blessed each of us with unimaginable power and potential. We are humbled as we realize that a gentle smile, a simple wave of the hand, or a kind greeting could quite literally change someone’s life. Remind us of our personal capacity to positively impact the world around us, and guide as we seek to bring glory to You in the process. In Christ’s name we pray, amen.