Imprints
I am fascinated by the imprints I see in concrete.
When first visiting our new studio after the sidewalk was poured, we found paw prints from the neighborhood dog, right there in the freshly poured concrete. Laughing, I decided that this senior four-legged friend deserved to put her paws wherever she wanted!
I’m sure you’ve come upon these, too - hand prints, hoof prints and leaf prints. Most recently I’ve been inspired by the details of individual leaf shapes that often find their way into cement paths. Like fossils, every print has a story to tell, a day to remember.
Consider this: we also imprint our stories into the paths of others’ stories. We leave impressions on the journey with each encounter - for better or for worse. Whether an act of kindness or a sharp word, others take in the way we live and interact.
When we’re caught in traffic or waiting at the dentist’s or volunteering at the local food bank, we are observed by watching eyes. The people around us consider our interactions. And like a fallen leaf in wet cement, we leave an impression.
God’s guides us in how we should live and the kind of imprint He’d like us to leave behind - an imprint of love. Proverbs 3:3-4 says:
Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
Practically, what does this mean?
Undoubtedly we should view every encounter as a chance to offer God’s love to those around us. Jesus says we should go the extra mile, “Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you” (Matt. 5:22). Leave a generous impression, one that is filled with caring and kindness. This is how we make the most of opportunities to share the love of Jesus with those around us.
Think about it: what is the greatest impact you could have in your interactions with others?
Leaving bits of Christ’s love wherever you go.
Now that’s a worthy impression.
Today is a GOOD day,
Natalie