By Sheila Rennau

But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

In Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story 2, there’s a scene where the toys are all gathered at Al’s house in an attempt to save Woody. But before they can get Woody back home, they have to solve a different, more imminent problem—who is the real Buzz? The answer comes when the true Buzz lifts up his foot to reveal Andy’s name written on the bottom of his shoe in permanent ink.

Scripture tells us that we will know the true followers of Christ by their fruit and by the love they have for one another. We will see the markings of the Holy Spirit in the life of the person claiming to know Christ. Are the markings of the Holy Spirit, as listed in Galatians 5:22, evident in our lives? Are they increasing so more and more we begin to look like our Savior?

So often, I beat myself up for not being a “better Christian,” but in these moments of self-doubt I forget the fundamental truth: I am known by the Name. Jesus has already claimed me and you as his own through his death and resurrection. His name is etched on our hearts when we choose to put our faith in him. As we walk with him in our day-to-day life, we will grow in him and bear fruit so all the world can see his love in us.

You and I don’t need permanent ink on the bottom of our foot to distinguish us as set apart for God. We have something far better, the promised Holy Spirit. It is through God’s power and guidance that we can change and share the love of Christ, in the words of Buzz Lightyear, “To infinity and beyond.”

Prayer Phrase

“What can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:18).

Spiritual Practice

Breathe Hope

Find a quiet space where you can sit without distractions. Light a candle. Take a few deep breaths, allowing your body to relax with each exhale. As you breathe, let go of any tension or worries you may be holding onto. Take notice of the way the flame dances and flickers, casting light and shadow in the room. As you observe the flame, imagine it symbolizing the spark of hope within you. With each breath, imagine the flame growing brighter and stronger. Visualize this light spreading throughout your body, filling you with a sense of hope and positivity. Take a moment to express gratitude for the blessings in your life, no matter how small they may seem.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.