2 Corinthians 3:3-5 – Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart. And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God. (KJV)

Coloured silicone bracelets first became known and popularized by Lance Armstrong when he launched his yellow band inscribed with "Live Strong" as a fundraiser for cancer which he had battled and beaten.

Since then, other colours have crept into the fray as fundraisers for various charities and causes; and now they are found in the mainstream in stores simply for self-support in such things as shows of strength of courage or affection.

My daughter gave me a blue one in support of the Indonesian tsunami which I wore for a time, then left it to lie on my dresser.

This past summer, we had a family reunion in Georgia at a most beautiful Methodist retreat centre. As I was leaving on the last day, I popped into the gift shop to say yet one more farewell to my brother who was busy buying some souvenirs.

At the counter was a box with red silicone bracelets bearing the words "Live For Him" embedded on one side and a little cross on the other. As I picked it up to look at it, my brother said, "Oh here, let me buy that for you." It wasn't expensive — a mere dollar. But the gesture and the simple words were what was most meaningful.

I've worn it ever since. Sometimes I'm asked what my bracelet is for. I answer, "It's a Christian bracelet." They may not ask me anything further, but at least they know what it stands for — and what I stand for also.

Proverbs 15:1 – A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. (KJV)

In other words, without preaching or fear of offending, we are often given opportunities to let the Lord's presence be felt.

Prayer: Thanks be to You, O God, for the varied opportunities we have to let Your presence in our world be known to others. Words on a pen. A coffee cup. A little cross on a necklace. Hands folded in prayer on a lapel pin. A red silicone bracelet. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Mary Daniel <marydee@shaw.ca>
Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
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