Making a difference 

Each of us has an inbuilt desire to matter — to know that our lives make a difference. Deep down, we long to leave the world a little better than we found it. For followers of Jesus, this calling isn’t about fame or recognition; it’s about impact. It’s about being salt and light in a world that desperately needs both.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:14–16, “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Making a difference begins right there, with light. Not the glaring spotlight of human success, but the steady, faithful glow of a life lived for God. Throughout Scripture, we see ordinary people used by God to bring extraordinary change. Moses was a stammering shepherd when God called him to lead a nation. Esther was a young woman placed in a royal court “for such a time as this.” The boy with five loaves and two fish didn’t have much, yet in Jesus’ hands it became more than enough. The common thread is not their ability, but their availability. God delights in using willing hearts to bring hope, healing, and transformation.

In a culture obsessed with individual achievement, the Kingdom message is radically different. It reminds us that significance is not found in status, but in service. Jesus, the Son of God, washed His disciples’ feet — the task of the lowest servant. He modelled what true greatness looks like. To make a difference, we must first learn to serve. Whether that’s welcoming someone at the door, visiting the lonely, encouraging a struggling friend, or simply listening — every act of kindness ripples outward in ways we may never see. Sometimes we think making a difference requires grand gestures or global platforms. But the truth is, difference begins in the daily. It’s found in consistency, compassion, and courage. It’s how we treat people when no one’s watching, how we respond to challenges, and how we use the gifts God has placed in our hands.

When we follow Jesus’ example, we begin to see through Kingdom eyes. We notice opportunities to bless, to restore, to love. The Good Samaritan didn’t walk past the wounded man; he stopped, he cared, he acted. Making a difference often means slowing down enough to see the need right in front of us. It means refusing to be indifferent. In Runnymede, our community is filled with quiet opportunities to make a difference — in our schools, workplaces, neighbourhoods, and families. The challenges may seem big, but God never asks us to fix everything. He asks us to be faithful with what’s in front of us. When we act in obedience, even small seeds can grow into mighty trees.

Paul wrote to the Galatians, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9). There is power in persistence. Sometimes the fruit of our faithfulness takes years to appear, but God always honours what is done in His name. Making a difference also means standing out — not for the sake of attention, but for the sake of truth. In a world where compromise often feels easier, choosing integrity, honesty, and compassion speaks volumes. When we live differently, people take notice. Our lives become living testimonies that point others to Jesus.

It’s worth remembering that the greatest difference we can make is eternal. Feeding the hungry, caring for the poor, supporting our community — these are vital expressions of love. But leading someone to encounter the love of Christ changes everything forever. When we share our faith, we’re not just improving a life; we’re transforming a destiny.
At Runnymede Christian Fellowship, we’re called to be that difference — to bring hope where there’s despair, faith where there’s fear, and love where there’s loneliness. Every time we gather, serve, or pray, we create space for God to move. Each act of service is a seed sown in faith.

Let’s not underestimate the power of small things done with great love. The smile that lifts someone’s day, the prayer that brings peace, the generosity that meets a hidden need — these are the moments that change lives. Jesus said that even giving a cup of cold water in His name will not go unrewarded.

If we want to make a difference, it starts with surrender — giving our time, talents, and resources back to the One who gave them to us. It’s saying, “Here I am, Lord, use me.” And when we do, we find that making a difference isn’t just about changing others; it changes us. We grow in faith, purpose, and joy as we see God working through our lives.
So today, let’s ask ourselves: Where can I shine light? Who can I encourage? How can I serve?

Because when we decide to make a difference — even in small ways — heaven takes notice. And the God who multiplies loaves and fishes still delights to take what little we offer and use it to feed multitudes.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16