Scripture Reading
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it gives light unto all that are in the house. Let you light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Matthew 5:14-16
Thought of the Day
If you are a lover of the arts and fine classical music like me (remind me, polka is classical isn’t it??), then you know the name of Antonio Stradivari. If not, he was the seventeenth-century violin maker whose name in its Latin form, Stradivarius, has become synonymous with excellence. Today, his violins are considered the very best in tone and sound quality and are valued in the millions. I read something once he wrote that reminded me of our scripture for today.
When any master holds “twixt chin and hand” a violin of mine, he will be glad that Stradivari lived, made violins, and made them of the best. If my hand slacked, I should rob God, since he is the fullest good. All my talent and strength come from God Almighty. But he could not have made Antonio Stradivari’s violins without Antonio.
Antonio Stradivari was a great violin maker and a pretty smart fellow, too. Never forget that all things come from God and also never forget the role that we play in partnership with Him. We are put here on earth to praise Him and also do His work. We live in a time now where there is a lot of work to be done to serve and to love and to let God’s Light shine through us to others.
Prayer
Father, Illuminate us with Your love and power, and let us illuminate Your world through You. Amen.