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IMPACTFUL LIFE (JOB 29:21-24)

REFLECTION

The theme for our reflection is ” Impactful life.” An impactful life means to have a marked effect or strong influence on others. We shall reflect on the fact that the life of a believer must be impactful. In other words, the people around us must experience a positive influence from us in our relationship with them.

Job recounted the days when his life was impactful within his society, even as he lamented over his current precarious condition. “People listened to me expectantly, waiting in silence for my counsel. 22 After I had spoken, they spoke no more; my words fell gently on their ears. 23 They waited for me as for showers and drank in my words as the spring rain. 24 When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them. (Job 29:21-24) In other words, people were greatly encouraged and blessed by Job’s presence in their lives. Indeed, a meaningful and successful life is one that has impacted those who have had an encounter with us or have had a relationship with us. Jesus’ impact on the lives of His disciples made Peter confess, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16).

It is important for us to note that people’s testimonials, eulogies or tributes about us are a confession of the impact we have made in their lives and that of society. Every interaction or encounter we have with friends, family, and strangers is an opportunity to have a long-lasting impact on their lives by being kind in our words and actions. Our facial expressions and encouragement can make a significant difference in someone’s life. We must represent hope and encouragement in the lives of the people we meet every day. Jesus has called us to become impactful in the world as salt and light. He admonished us, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16)

Somebody may change his or her mind to commit suicide just by having a conversation with you. Someone may be contemplating separation or divorce but after having an encouraging conversation with you that marriage relationship will be revived. Let us not underestimate the power of positive influence or impact we can have on our society to make it a safe and beautiful place to live. Let us follow Paul’s example to the Philippians when he encouraged them to live an impactful life in his concluding words, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.“ (Philippians 4:8-9). Ultimately, we must live an impactful life as disciples of Christ by following His perfect examples when He commanded us to “…teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:20). In other words, our lives as Christians must be an impactful example to the world.

In summary, we have discovered that our calling is to live an impactful life. May our words, actions and lifestyle be a source of inspiration, encouragement and hope to others. Shalom.

PRAYER

Holy Spirit, empower us to live impactful lives wherever we find ourselves as believers. May our lives glorify God and be a blessing to our family, church, and society. Amen.