Acts 2:13
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.
Far too many people place far too much emphasis on a person’s education or credentials. Peter, who spoke so eloquently and boldly to the most educated men in his country, was merely a fisherman. What helped Peter make such a good impression? It was not an impressive resume or transcript. What was impressive was that Peter had been with Jesus.
If we face facts, we must recognize that there are many people with high-level degrees, even from seminaries, who are not impressive. Sure, they may be bright, but something about the way that they come across does not leave a lasting good impression. But, when we encounter a person who truly loves and spends time with Jesus, that is a different story. The person who loves Jesus with all their heart is wonderful to behold. They have a sweet spirit and a Godward direction to their life. They make you want to be around them, because you know they are showing you as much as is possible of the glory of God. They may not even have a high-school diploma, but if they have been with Jesus, it outshines anything the world might say is lacking in their education.
We are created by God to bear his image. Part of that responsibility is for us to show the world around us what God is like. We want people to know God as they get to know us. No, we certainly are not deity in any form. We are only mirrors that reflect to people the glory of God. At least, that is what we are supposed to be. So, if we want to do this rightly, we need, like Peter and John, to be with Jesus. The more we are with our Lord, the more we can help others to see his beautiful face.
Jesus, I want to be with you today. Help me to spend my time, whether at work or rest, in your presence. Allow me to see your glory in your word. Allow me to have sweet fellowship with you in all that I do. Help me to be focused on you and your glory all the day long. I also ask that you would help me to show someone else your majesty. I do not ask this so that they will be impressed with me—we all know I’m not impressive—, I simply want people to see you and be drawn more to you. May others around me only notice someone who has been with Jesus.
Pastor Travis Peterson 