TODAY'S INTEGRITY SHAPES TOMORROW'S WITNESS

TODAY’S INTEGRITY SHAPES TOMORROW’S WITNESS

Several years ago, a preacher from out-of-state accepted a call to a church in Houston, Texas.  Some weeks after he arrived, he had occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area.  When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change.  

As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, ‘I better give this quarter back.  It would be wrong to keep it.’  Then he thought, ‘Oh, forget it, it’s only a quarter.  Who would worry about this little amount of money?  Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it.  Accept it as a ‘gift from God’ and just keep quiet.’

When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, and then handed the quarter to the driver, saying, “Here, you gave me too much change.”

The driver, with a smile, replied, “Aren't you the new preacher in town?”

“Yes” he replied.

“Well, I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship.  I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave you too much change.  I’ll see you at church on Sunday.”

When the preacher stepped out of the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on tightly, and whispered, “Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter.”

In fact, our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read.  This is a really scary example of how much people watch us as Christians, and will put us to the test!  Always be on guard -- and remember -- you carry the name of Jesus Christ on your shoulders when you call yourself ‘Christian.’

Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character.
Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

You see, being a Christian is a whole lot like being on “Candid Camera.”  When you least expect it, you’re elected…so expect it!   My sisters and brothers, be continually blessed!