I was around fourteen years old, working diligently with an adze to prepare wood for the ribs of a sailing boat. As I focused on my task, a stranger approached and observed my work. An adze, a shipwright’s tool, is both powerful and perilous. He waited until I paused to adjust the wood, then greeted me with a “good morning, son.” In those days, it was customary for teenagers like me to address elders respectfully as “sir.”
He seemed to study the wood I was shaping and then inquired, “You are Cyril’s son, aren’t you?” Surprised but affirming my identity, I responded, “Yes, I am.” A smile crossed his face, and he stated confidently, “I knew it. The way you use that adze, there is only one man who uses it that way.” He then asked if I wasn’t afraid of it missing its mark and injuring me. My attempt to explain my technique only confirmed his belief in my identity.
I recount this memory from my youth to emphasize two points. Firstly, the celebration of Jesus’ birth for over two thousand years is a testament to His sacrificial death on the old rugged cross for the sins of the world. Secondly, just as the stranger recognized me by my actions, as children of God, we should be identified by our deeds. Our lives should consistently reflect the teachings and love of Jesus.
He has given us His love and His Spirit, promising to be with all who love and serve Him. Our actions, like the strokes of an adze, should reveal our true identity as children of God. May we always be found guilty of living as Jesus did.
This is today’s crosspoint—may you have a blessed day, reflecting the love of our Savior.
Bible Verse:
- 1 John 3:18 – “Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.”
- Matthew 5:16 – “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
- Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”
