For a grade schooler, ROY G. BIV is the world’s foremost expert on the visible light spectrum. Of course he isn’t a real person, at least not that I know of.

Rather he is the stuff of mnemonic fiction. The letters of his name remind us of the spectrum of visible light–Red, Orange, and Yellow fall at one end while Blue, Indigo, and Violet hang out at the other. Green transitions between the two ends.

Mr. BIV’s theory of light is pretty simple. Where you see red you know orange and yellow aren’t far behind. The same goes for violet and the blues (what a great name for a new a new band!).

While you may be familiar with his spectral memory trick, I’ll bet you’ve never read his account of the gospel. Just like his theory of light, it’s pretty simple really. It states there are certain Christian characteristics that group together at either end of our belief spectrum.

Imagine one end of the spectrum, let’s call it Religion. This is where fear, judgment, and condemnation exist. Where you see one, the others aren’t far behind.

Now imagine the other end–its name is Grace. This is where forgiveness, peace, and love thrive. Where one is present, the others are likely at work too.

There is a very important difference between the two ends of the belief spectrum. Religion produces heat but no light whereas Grace produces light but no heat.

As you go about your business today, examine where your everyday behavior falls on the belief spectrum. Challenge yourself to produce more light than heat.

Live The Mission,
Greg