Shepherd Sayings

In the “Sermon on the Mount”, Jesus taught that his followers were “The salt of the earth”. He said, “You are the light of the world …. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:13, 14, 16),

I read a little story recently which perfectly illustrates this truth. An aged Christian man who mended umbrellas knocked at my back door. “Have you any umbrellas which need fixing?”, he asked. “Yes,” I replied as I went for my umbrella which the cover was torn and the ribs were broken. The old man sat on the steps and carefully removed the torn cloth. With equal care he measured the new cloth and repaired the broken ribs. I was fascinated in observing how he put his best effort into the task and commented, “You seem most careful in your work.” “Yes,” he said as a smile came on his wrinkled face. “I try to do the best possible work.” “But your customers would not know the difference until you were gone. Perhaps you expect to come back this way again someday”, I suggested. “No,” said the old man. “I will probably never come this way again.” Sensing greatness of character in the old man, and wanting him to disclose it, I asked, “Then why are you so particular to the best work?” Said he, “So it will be easier for the man who follows me! If I do shoddy work, my customers will soon find it out, and the next mender of umbrellas who comes along will get the cold shoulder!”

Father in Heaven, help us live in such a way that Jesus, “The light of the world”, can shine through our lives. Amen!