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I talk a lot about making an impact. I know I sound like a broken record constantly saying, “We have a creative capacity from God to make an impact on the lives of others around us. We have the opportunity to bring ideas into existence so “better” comes about in the world around us.”
But there is a prerequisite for making an impact in the world.
Jesus’ last gathering with the twelve gave him the chance to “show the full extent of his love” as he washed their feet. And he said this:
34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35 New Living Translation
Jesus went first.
Jesus had shown them love throughout their last few years together and now in this moment. He was an example. He was a model. But most importantly, he was the giver of love and he was now calling them to share with one another for the world to see.
Before Jesus’ disciples could impact the world in the name of Jesus, they had to first understand the impact he had on their lives as he loved them.
When it comes to loving each other and the world around us this passage is the standard. Though love is the greatest way to impact others, this principle applies to every area of our influence.
I think about ways I have possibly impacted my small circle of influence. The times I have influenced others is the direct result of someone else going first in my life.
Going first is a powerful principle for two reasons.
- We look back: Do an inventory of your life. Look at pivotal times and you’ll find someone left an impression on you. Looking back over time and relationships helps us see the construction of our character. No doubt, some have hurt and wounded us, but our response to those situations was not in isolation. Someone, even if from a book, counselor’s office or some other seemingly impersonal way, helped us respond differently.
- We step out: When our lives are changed for “better”, we can’t allow anyone to be left behind in the “same” way of life. We must be motivated. We must take risks. It’s our turn to take the first step. This is where the conversation starts on this blog. This is where we start thinking out of the box and birthing ideas to help bring about “better” for someone else.
Today is your day. Go first. Make a difference in a life or situation desperate to be better.
Questions for you…
- Who has impacted your life in a great way?
- What did they say or do to leave such a mark?
- How were you changed?
- How can you take that mark on your life and turn it into a blessing on someone else’s life?
I was changed by many…specifically my Weezie, who was an elegant lady, who taught me a little about entertaining and supporting your husband. Also, Jack and Eulyeen, who mentored me through every day country living, teaching me to cook, pick vegetables, and relax. All of them owned a strong faith.
I try to foster bonds between my children with older church family members who might need extra love. Nothing like a kid’s attention sometimes. Likewise, I hope to mentor a few young people, too.
Jonesy
misssavvychic.blogspot.com
Jenny one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do was tell you the night that Weezie passed away. I never met her, but from the things you’ve said of her over the years, there is no doubt she impacted your life in a huge way. That’s awesome.
No doubt, you will mentor kids, but rest assured you’ve impacted my life and others too. You’re a blessing to a long list of peeps and homies. : )
The list of people who have made an impact on my life would be considered long by some and short by many. Positive role models probably did not appear in my life until I was an adult. It was not so much about what they said, but how they may of said it and how they lived their lives on a daily basis. As far as how it changed me that may be a harder question to answer but I faithfully believe that they taught me how to find my own way as a wife, mother and Christian. My biggest regret is that some of those people did not show up in my life years before they did.
One person who has had a significant mark on my life and probably doesn’t even know it is the very writer of this blog. Many, many moons ago he was leading worship on New Year’s Eve. His gift of song, praise and prayer opened my heart to truly feel the love of our Lord wrapping his arms around me. I will never forget that night, that feeling or the way rededicating my life to walking with Him makes me feel every day.
For the last question the answer is easy to say but not always so easy to follow through on. Be that kind word, soft smile or gentle hug that someone needs. Recognize those who are being a light in this world and help those who need to polish their lamp so that it will shine brighter each day.
Thank you Jon for the light you have been in my life over the past 15 or so years.
Wow. Thanks, Melanie. I appreciate you and Warren so much. I know I don’t say that enough, but we all go back many years. Of course 15 years ago, I was only what, 14?
Ok, let’s just stop right there. 