ARE WE BEING USEFUL?

The LORD called all of us out of darkness into His marvellous light – 1 Peter 2:9.  The purpose of it is…“that you [we] should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you [us] out of darkness into his marvellous light:”

Now the question is, Are we being useful for the Kingdom of God? Are we living out our primary calling? Are we displaying the praises of God? It is good to remember and remind ourselves, the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:16 – “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Are we shining?

Bartholomäus Ziegenbalg a member of the Lutheran clergy, came to Tamil Nadu, India, as a 22 year old young missionary, on July 9, 1706. He was only thirty-six, when he died on 23 February 1719. His time in India, a mere fourteen years, yet, it was full and fruitful, for the glory of God.

By the time Ziegenbalg died, he had established a seminary, translated the New Testament into Tamil, converted and baptized over two hundred people, and constructed a Church building. His ministry had severe obstacles. Apart from the struggles with language, culture, customs, comforts, facilities and climate, which he never minded, and happily endured; he had been imprisoned by the Dutch rulers, who were ruling that area, because they feared his preaching would antagonize the people they administered.

What a life! What a sacrificial offering of one’s life for glory of God, and for the blessing of His people! What a sweet smelling offering to the LORD! What about us?