Shelf Life
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven,” Matthew 5:16.
My wife and I were reminiscing over our loved ones, namely our grandparents, that were in Heaven. My wife said, “There’s only one left on the shelf that’s not gone.” We continued to reflect on the cherished memories we still hold dearly. Some are as if they were just yesterday. We will never forget them. We will not forget their love, commitment and wisdom.
Now think of your life. You may not realize it, but you are on someone’s shelf. You are being watched by someone. Not for scrutiny or criticism, but for your testimony, how you live and act toward them and others.
You may think, “No, not me. I am nothing special. I have never done anything great or received any awards.” Well, I beg to differ. Some of my greatest role models and heroes did not have fame or fortune. Their names were not written for their accomplishments. They were not known for their voice or talents. They are on my shelf because they loved God.
They showed kindness and compassion when needed. They gave words of wisdom and never criticized. I cherish the moments I have and have had with them. These individuals did not seek attention. They sought only the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.
Considering we are on a shelf somewhere should cause us to think of who is watching. Could it be a young child looking up to you because they admire you? Imagine a multitude of young souls at a VBS program at your church waiting to hear from you as you teach them and prepare their lives for His kingdom. They have you on their soon to be spiritual shelves.
So again, think of your life. Who in your life looks up to you? Who follows your word, steps and thought? We may never even know who they are, even if we are in contact with them all the time. But they know us.
You do have a shelf life. The time and length are determined by the life you
live. It is determined by your testimony, by how you live for Christ. You are somebody’s role model, first place on their spiritual shelf. This causes me to think of how I am living, what I have done, and what I should do in the future. It should cause the same for you.
Michael Whitman