"Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)…

…but be careful with what else you broadcast to the world.

It finally happened to me.  Someone stole my credit card information and made some fraudulent charges on my account.  Fortunately my credit card company was on the ball and called me that day because the charges were out of character for me.  The first charge was mine but the next two were not.  We immediately closed my account number and I am not responsible for any fraudulent charges.  As far as I know the rest of my identity is fine.  I have viewed my credit report and am taking all necessary precautions now to protect myself.  This is one part of my identity that I do not want the world to see.

The part of my identity that I do want to get out is my identity in Jesus Christ.  When we are baptized we are given a new identity – a child of God.  With this label we are claimed and marked with the cross of Christ forever.  No one can steal this identity from us, but hopefully they can see it and then relay it on to others.  Your "account" in Christ will never be canceled or closed.  It can not be overdrawn or be tagged with a late fee.  Your identity in Christ is one that is forever, one that is protected and for all to see.

So be careful with your credit and financial identity, but be reckless with your identity in Christ.  Broadcast it for all the world to see. 

"Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

Praise be to God always and forever!  Amen! -EDH-