Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Reflections



As I sit waiting for my flight, I was thinking of what really makes a difference in my life, by reflecting on where I have been and where I am headed. Sometimes when I look back I get sad, for loses along the way, then other times I am encouraged by God's provision in my life and those that are close to me.

My thought then takes me to today, this moment that I have. How am I living it?  Do I reflect God's love that lives within me to my family, friends and those that are new to me? What kind of garden am I growing? Am I planting seeds of encouragement, hope and love to all I meet? Have I said yes to those in need, whether it is a kind word or deed?

As we get older I think our steps become more intentional.  Maybe that is wisdom, if we use the lessons we have learned wisely or maybe it is understanding our frailties. According to scripture we are but dust. Many books have been written about our purpose, what it is and how to find it. I find that staying busy sometimes keeps us from reflecting or planning, maybe that is because it is hard and or painful.... 

As we journey into another year may we all reflect on our moments each day. Each day that I close my eyes can I answer one question. Did I use my time wisely today, by reflecting God's love to someone? If I make that a habit of each day then I am looking for opportunities to bless someone with the gifts and talents God has given me each day and at the end of the year I will have been an inspiration to many no doubt, but I dare say the biggest growth will be in me as I strive to become more Christlike in my daily actions. Like all good goal setting or traveling, we have to access where we are and make intentional specific goals for each day to reach our destination, frequently reflecting and making sure we are on course for our intended outcome.

If in our checkpoints we find we are going in the wrong direction, there is nothing wrong with doing a U turn! Recently driving with my daughter has taught me a lot about those. The beauty is she uses them  as much as needed, no hesitations.

How about you. Do you know where you are and where you want to go? Are you on the right path to get there? Do you know the steps that need to be taken to achieve the goal? Are you willing to make a U turn and get on the right path when you find yourself off course? Do you have a friend that can help?

Teaching has taught me a lot about the value of questions, for it causes all of us to think about why we are doing what we are doing and take intentional steps to achieve our goals.

I pray we are all encouraged to take the first step, this moment, each day, keeping our eyes fixed on Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, to reach our final destination.

Blessings and Godspeed to all this upcoming year, one day at a time....

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