Shine Where You Are by Martin Wiles

One at a time, they filed nervously up to the speaker’s podium. With shaky voices, they began their list of thank yous…to parents, grandparents, friends, the headmaster, teachers, custodian. Wait a minute…the custodian? Not that being a custodian isn’t an extremely crucial and honorable profession. I’ve just never heard one thanked in a public ceremony before.

I teach at a small Christian school, and Senior Chapel Day is an annual observance that draws a crowd of friends and family members. I thought it odd on this particular occasion that so many of the soon-to-be-graduated seniors would acknowledge our custodian. From their descriptions of him, he appeared more along the lines of a counselor than a person who sweeps and mops our floors, empties our trash, and cleans up our messes.

Jesus challenged his followers to imitate the actions of this modest servant of God. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father (Matthew 5:16 NLT).

I admit-I’ve not always enjoyed shining where God has placed me. But I’ve learned that where God puts me is not the most important matter in my life’s puzzle…it’s what I make of where he puts me. Making good use of every life situation-or predicament, entails shining for him. And when I shine others will notice the One who enables me to shine whether I’m in dire straits or pleasant places. Whether I’m pushing a broom, emptying trash cans, teaching students, or sitting behind a leather desk on the 50th floor of an office building making life changing decisions won’t matter.

So go ahead…shine where God puts you rather than complain about it not being what you’d rather do. You never know…you might be influencing an entire school.

Prayer: Lord of grace and mercy, help us be content where You situate us and shine brightly where You plant us.

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