Everything You Touch

“I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.” 1 Corinthians 9:23 NLT

Edmond Locard discovered a whole new way to approach police work. Born in southern France in 1877, Locard became a lawyer before turning to anthropology and medicine. Inspired by the insights from these studies, he began to apply scientific methods to the process of investigating crime.

In 1910, he formed the first police laboratory in Lyon. There his examinations led to breakthroughs such as fingerprint identification.

Through this work he developed what is called the “principle of exchange.” This states that “every contact leaves a trace.” This means that when two objects come into contact, there is some kind of exchange. Each leaves some kind of mark on the other, sometimes even in microscopic ways.

This discovery opened the way to new ways of solving crimes. Locard had proven that, in everything we do, we leave evidence of our presence (through DNA, hair, clothing fibers, etc.). We also take something away from what we touch.

Applying these discoveries, investigators began to recognize new types of evidence. As they examined anything or anyone that may have come in contact with the crime scene, they were able to develop a more complete picture of events.

While revolutionizing police work, Locard’s discoveries also illustrated a principle that is true in the spiritual realm. That everything about our lives is impacted by our attitudes, our character, our beliefs, and by our contact with others.

When we are born again, everything changes. We think and act differently. Others can see the difference. And we leave an “imprint” on every person we meet, and everywhere we go. But this also means that we are impacted by everything that we see and touch. Other people and things leave their mark on us!

Remember that everything you “touch” makes a difference. Allow God’s Spirit to change you, that you might impact others for His Kingdom.

Prayer: Father, give me discernment about the things I allow into my life. And help me touch others with the power of the Gospel. I surrender my life to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.