Brevity

Our lives are short - relatively speaking. Somewhere about five years ago, life began to speed up for me. Marriage, home ownership, becoming a parent...I am amazed at how chocked full the last ten years have been.

And I am at a time of reflection. Suddenly I look back and see the fulfillment of so many of my dreams. Now, I don't want to waste the time I have remaining. I know it will only be a few moments from now. I have always known that...But I never realized that it would suddenly really seem true. I have a full life. And I am only 33. Mid-life is around the corner. Wow.

My wife's grandfather is sick with cancer. It has caused me to reflect on the brevity of our earthly sojourn. I want to be faithful to God and to others. May my examination provoke me to act.

Growing Up

I have been working on my office the past week. It is nearly complete in it's renovation and I find it interesting that folks have such differing opinions of the changes I have made -- it has gone from "college dorm room" to "eclectic professional" office. No matter what people say, I am very happy with the changes because they reflect a inward course shift for me.

I want to be more intentional this coming year in following Jesus. I would like to see my "issues" interfere less in accomplishing goals. And rather than sit back and wallow in frustration at the circumstances around me, I will take action and order my world so that I can flourish. There are too many important things at stake. So I will act. And where my hands are tied, I will turn to a different situation and use my feet.

Not too long ago I turned 33 years old. Being married and having a son with another child on the way has helped me to realize that I am a full-fledged adult. I need to make the most of each day. I don't want to get bogged down by the things I used to let distract me. So I am feeling good. Embracing my blossoming maturity. I want to make a difference. So I will let God make a difference in me.

River Rink

Tonight, I took the youth group to the River Rink. We went last week too, but only a few of the students were present for both times. Young people are so busy nowadays (even during a school break) that it is difficult to organize and carry out events that will consistently have wide spread appeal.

As a youth pastor, usually I am content to have teachable moments sprinkled into an event, no matter the attendance. But, from time to time, I feel somewhat discouraged that more youth are not more consistent. Some of these guys I hardly talk to, much less have opportunity to invest in them... I try to do what I can, but I can only do so much.

So, I have to take what I can get and make the most of the opportunities. I guess the thing that I have learned is that you never know when there will be an opportunity for a seed to be planted, or watered, or pruned, or harvested. I just have to keep my eyes open and my heart tuned to the Father, so that I can be faithful. Even if my charges are not always in front of me, I can trust He is working in them. I can only do my part. So Lord, help me to do my part well and trust you with the rest.