A friend of mine wonders and worries about their purpose in life, what they are supposed to do, and how they can make an impact in the world. As I pondered how to respond, I thought of something that sits in our yard.

On one side of our property is a drain for street runoff. Because of the drainage area, our driveway has an odd angle at the end. To warn drivers to make proper adjustments before exiting, we placed a tall reflector about six feet from the street. That little reflector may not seem like much, yet that reflector redirects drivers to keep them from damaging the drainage area and/or their vehicle.

Reflectors have purpose, for safety they reflect light to direct, warn, and caution. As Christians, we are to reflect the light of Christ. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. … let your light shine before people, so that they can see your good deeds and give honor to your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16 NET Bible)

Wondering and worrying about my purpose has many times kept me from fulfilling my purpose. I often make life much harder than it has to be. Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” (Matthew 22:37-38 NET Bible)

Our purpose is to love God, and the more we love God, the more brightly His glorious light shines within us. As we go about our day, as we complete the tasks that need completing, as we encounter people along the way, let’s reflect the light of Christ so that others (before they exit this world) will be directed to the light of Christ for eternal safety.

“Remember, our Message is not about ourselves; we’re proclaiming Jesus Christ, the Master. All we are is messengers, errand runners from Jesus for you. It started when God said, ‘Light up the darkness!’ and our lives filled up with light as we saw and understood God in the face of Christ, all bright and beautiful. … We are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him.” ~ 2 Corinthians 4:5-6, 2 Corinthians 3:18 (MSG)

From Present in His Presence by Lisa Buffaloe