Variety: Philippians 2:14–16

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labour in vain.   

Philippians 2:14–16  

The Magi noticed something different in the sky. Something unusual. Something out of the ordinary – and following it led them to the most wonderful encounter.  

Likewise, Paul encourages us to ‘shine like stars in the sky’. To live differently to those around us. To be something different, unusual, out of the ordinary. We can stand out by the way we live, and in doing so help people to find their way to Jesus. As we hold firmly to the word of life, the Word that is Jesus, we can’t help but let people see some of his life flowing through us.  
 
‘Do everything without grumbling or arguing.’ What a line! Incredibly simple and yet extremely challenging. It’s not the way of the world we live in. To live like children of God in this world is a real statement. Not complaining that the world doesn’t revolve around us or that we don’t always get our way, remaining ‘blameless and pure’ in the face of disappointment and challenge. It’s not what people expect.  
 
We are called to bring light in dark places. To shine like stars, pointing to Jesus just like that first star did 2,000 years ago.  

What does ‘holding firmly to the word of life’ look like for you this week? Where are you most vulnerable to grumbling or arguing? Invite God to come and help you become blameless and pure in this area.  

Prayer

Father, I know that there are plenty of days when I grumble and argue. Please forgive me when I get it wrong. Please help me to shine like a star for you so that others will find the way to Jesus. Amen.  

London Institute of Contemporary Christianity