Each time the grandchildren come to our home there is at least one item that seems
to get left behind. Sometimes it is found right away, sometimes it takes a few days or even a week, but eventually it is discovered and the most wonderful thing happens. It brings joy to my heart as I remember our time together. I remember one time in particular, it was early morning and I had been out walking in the back gardens. As I headed into the house I spied a small sand dollar laying on the patio table. Smiling, I remembered a trip to Santa Cruz one summer and the time we spent walking the beach looking for rocks and sea shells.
As I stood reflecting, I realized we all leave little reminders, impressions of footprints, in the lives of those we come into contact with each and every day. How we handle ourselves–the mood we are in, how we react to the feelings and attitudes of others, the things we say and all that we do–leaves an imprint as we touch and affect the hearts and lives of others. What do your imprints look like: are they anger, jealousy, frustration, deceitfulness, pride, unforgiveness, selfishness, inflated ego, hatred, judgmental, or quarrelsome? I know we can all have our moments, and we pray that when we do others will forgive us during these momentary lapses. But are they truly momentary, or have they become the shoes that we regularly wear. Think about it.
As believers and followers of Jesus Christ we need to be wearing the same shoes He did–“doing nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others. In your relationship with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being the very nature of God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, He made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant.” (Philippians 2:3-7) When we are willing to walk as Jesus did, God’s Spirit will cause our steps to be ones of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
What impressions are you leaving in the lives of others?