The old adage from the world of entertainment says that “Any publicity is good publicity.” This morning a lot of people have discovered and are discussing CTS, a little-known company from Elkhart, Indiana, that makes electronic equipment, sensors and actuators. Oh, by the way, they also make pedal assemblies for automobiles, specifically Toyotas. A recent spate of accidents caused by out-of-control accelerators has caused Toyota to recall millions of their newest models. Even Chinese automakers have canceled future orders of CTS parts. (That’s when you know you’re in trouble.)

For years CTS executives have likely been thinking, “If only we could get the word out about our products. What can we do to let people know we exist?” This week they have all the publicity they can handle. By now, they are tired of answering the phone to answer questions about their company and products.

This incident reminded me that there are things more important than people knowing who I am. What do people know about me? What impression do my words and behavior leave with people that I meet? This involves more than simple concern with image or impressions. The world is enamored with celebrity and publicity, ignoring a person’s substance. The Christian must be concerned with character and integrity that is expressed through our conduct.

Every believer should be concerned with the witness that we impart to others. Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). We are called to do good so that others benefit, God is glorified, and we become more like Christ.

This type of testimony takes more than a kind word or nice gesture once in a while. Paul encourages young people to develop “a pattern of good works” as evidence of godliness (Titus 2:7). Day after day. In big and small ways. To those closest to us and those we have never met before. When that becomes our habit, the focus is rightly directed to our heavenly Father.

May the desire of our heart today be “Let them see Christ in me.”