How different are you?

Have you ever thought how different you are? There are so many ways of being different, but essentially there is a positive and a negative way. For instance, when someone tries to look better or attempting to stand out from others by saying something negative about someone else; this is not just a bad way, but in some cases can be also called slandering. Nevertheless, there is a way much more positive; some people stand out naturally, others stand out showing how different they are, in both cases, we can feel there is something special about them, yet some have special skills, while others are simply gifted.
My question is, are you making the difference in this world? To make a difference, we have to be different, do our best, try harder, and surprise people around us. Our desire can change things in a positive way and can bring God’s kingdom to this planet.
Unfortunately, some people in a different environment change who they are just to fit in. If you are in the same situation, try not to follow any stereotype or imitate someone else. Most of the time, being special just means being yourself and not being afraid of breaking paradigms in the place you are. You can adapt yourself without losing what is really essential inside you. 

Jesus said in Matthew 5:13-16:

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? You are the light of the world; a city set on a hill cannot be hid. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

According to this context I can just think of Joseph of Egypt, he was for sure a man of God, who knew very well how to adapt himself to unexpected situations without losing himself in a different culture. All together, Joseph’s life could be classified as drama with a happy ending. He is a true example of determination, confidence, resilience, and faith in God, above all things. He knew that it didn’t matter the circumstances, yet God was taking care of him, and on the top of that, he knew his dreams were safe in God’s hands.
He managed keeping his traditions and faith, despite he was away from his homeland and the protection of his cultural heritage. Joseph overcome the pain of being misunderstood, neglected , or even rejected, but in his case being different had to do with the responsibility of carrying the precious heritage of God’s word in whatever places he was.
God made you different for a special reason. Allow God to use you the in way you are, with all your defects and virtues. God tells you to go and shine in a word overwhelmed by selfishness and personal interests.
Nevertheless, in the end of the day what really matter is being honest, loyal, and faithful to God.

God bless you.

English Version by Clarice Moraes Harding

Original by Pr Helio Morais

See Portuguese version:

O que significa ser diferente?