Witnesses

In a courtroom, witnesses have one job: to tell what they have seen, or heard, or (in the case of an "expert witness") what they know to be true.
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Questions come. First, from the side who called them there. Then, from the other side comes a cross-examination. Witnesses don't need to be nervous if they are simply honest, and share what they know to be true.
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You are my witnesses, says the Lord. Isaiah 43:10
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We do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord. 2 Corinthians 4:5
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I love the idea that we are God's witnesses. And just like in a courtroom, our testimony isn't about ourselves. Our only job is to share what we have seen, or heard, or know to be true.
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So let me ask you a few questions as we begin today:
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What have YOU seen? Have you seen everyday miracles? Have you seen the birth of a child...or the strength of a veteran? Have you seen a friend find hope in the midst of difficulty...or a stunning sight in nature that reminded you of the beauty of God?
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What have YOU heard? Have you heard the words "I love you" when you needed them most? Have you heard the first birds of spring as life pushes through the deep cold of winter? Have you heard the voices of angels through the mouths of children who call you by name?
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What do you know to be true? Do you know that love conquers death because you have held a loved one's hand as they died? Do you know that no matter what today holds, the sun will rise tomorrow on a fresh start? Do you know that "nothing can separate us from the love of God" (Romans 8)?
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Today, may we be witnesses to the beauty, the faithfulness, and the love of a God who walks with us every step. Today, may our eyes be opened to see, our ears be opened to hear, and our minds be opened to know that life is good...God is good...and may we be filled with gratitude for all we witness today.
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And may we remember: We aren't called to be the judge. We are simply called to be a witness.
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PRAYER:
Let your light in us shine before all people, so that they may see our good works and glorify you, the living God. You are worthy of all praise. Out of love, you gave your life for us. We will proclaim you to the world. Amen.*
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*Prayer taken from the Moravian Daily Texts