Today has been a marvelous day! I had the opportunity to go to my home church for youth Sunday where I was given the honor to speak or as some said "preach the message and step on toes." Now I don't feel I really stepped on toes but by the end of the service we could've watered quite a few plants. I'm not sure what was so different about today but for some reason I felt part of something bigger...something that I was once a part of but no longer was. I guess in my absence due to college I have grown distant from my home church...or so it feels. I guess that's why things seemed so personal today.
I chose to use Daniel as my subject this morning as he is one of my favorite examples of courage in the life of a young person. When I look at Daniel and his stories I couldn't help but help to find myself wondering what he would be like if I were to meet him today. You know I think he would probably be a great catch! But who knows :) There were things that I pointed that I admired about Daniel:
1) He had the courage to stand up for his beliefs even in uncertain times or places
2) He showed respect...chivalry is not dead my friends!
3) He was well revered and a great leader
4) He was a great man of God!
I couldn't help but think that I would only be so lucky for God to choose a man for me that had very similar qualities. I don't say this to look like I'm desperate or looking for a relationship, I'm happy with where I am in my life and know that at this moment a significant other is not the plan. I do say this though to take note that if it is in the greater plan...I don't think these stood out to me for no reason.
Daniel's life of courage inspires me to live a life of courage as well. Being a Christian in today's world almost requires a daily dose of courage. So often I find myself knowing that while I'm standing in the dark if I just take one simple step toward the Lord he would turn on the light and take care of me. However, that is easier said than done! After that step is taken the next hardest thing is to ensure that all of me went with that step and that I have given all over to Him. Most recently this has been a big struggle as I have listened, awaited and followed God's call. I know that God will take care of me in this matter but that does not make me any less scared to death. Don't get me wrong though I'm very excited about what's in store but I do believe it's only healthy for that excitement to be accompanied by fear.
As I touched upon some of this today I looked out across the audience and saw tears...I wondered if they were tears of pride, sorrow, a sign of God's presence or something else? I do not think that in my life I have ever felt so affirmed or supported in the things I said or the life I live. I saw my Grandpa show emotions I never knew he was capable of, I saw some of the biggest influencer's of my life tell stories to one another about how I was as a child and I definitely do not remember a time when I received so many tearful hugs in only a 10 minute time period. I did not think that what I said was such a 'moving' combination of words I believe there was more going on this church. I believe that just as I had hoped God was able to speak through me and I feel thankful and honored to have been the vessel.
As I continue my journey and you yours just remember..."Courage is being scared to death...and saddling up anyway!" ~ John Wayne
When you have a free moment I encourage you to listen or watch this video of the poem "The Dash" by Linda Ellis, I shared it today as it's one of my favorites :)
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