No Regrets

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10 

I preached a funeral not too long ago.  We went to the cemetery which was older but nicely kept. I cannot recall what was inscribed on most of the tombstones but I do remember one inscription:

Mary Fisher
1845 – 1873
Deeply Regretted

I don’t know who Mary Fisher was. For me her entire life is contained in the dash between those two numbers: Regretted.  I have no clue how she died.  I only knew in that moment that I did not want that epitaph on my grave. I did not want my name and then the words “deeply regretted” tagged onto the end. 

Imagine having your entire life summed up by the words: “deeply regretted”?
Not intensely loved. Not dearly beloved or greatly missed. Not enthusiastically lived. Not loved by many or even No Regrets.  But deeply regretted.

I walked away from that funeral asking the same question over and over.  How to live and not regret?  So much in our lives steals and destroys.  So much can make us live with regret.  But Jesus didn't come for us to live with regrets.  Jesus came that we might have life: life to the full. 

Allowing ourselves to dwell on regrets steals from the life Jesus came to give us.
If we do want to live fully, without regrets, we have to believe that Jesus has come to give us new life. We have to look at the mistakes we've made, accept the consequences and find a way to bring life back into them. 

Maybe this means apologizing, or telling someone you love them or trying something you fear. Perhaps living without regret means sacrificing something you love or finding a way to shake a habit or radically changing your life or forgiving someone who hurt you. 

Perhaps the best way to live without regret is not doing something we might regret.  I don't know if there is something you regret.  But if there is, God can fix it.  Don't allow regret to steal the life He has given you.

One area in life we might regret is letting others slip out of our life.  Chicago, a great band from my high school days, sang "You don't know what you've got until it's gone, and I found out a little too late."  It's easy sometimes to grow apart and it gets easier. 

Live your life to the full!  Don't let regret control you.  If you regret something said or done, ask for forgiveness.  If you regret how you treated someone, mend the relationship.  I know you are young, not thinking about your tombstone, but don't let your marker say, "Deeply Regretted" 

Late Night Ramblings

I want to preface my remarks to you today by saying that this is not a "subtweet" nor is anything I am about to say personal toward any reader.  I actually don't even know where this is going to be quite honest.  As I begin it's 2am, nothing unusual for me.  Insomnia and I are great friends.  I am now the captain of Team No Sleep, thus the title Late Night Ramblings.  I am not even sure I could call this a devotion, not sure what I can call it, but rambling is something I am pretty good at.

There are just some things I want the younger readers who I text daily with a devo to understand.

Paul told the readers of his letter to Colossae that they should speak graciously, for their goal was to bring out the best in others.  Sometimes it's not what you say, it's how you say it.  And sometimes it's impossible to know how you say something if the only way you speak is through texts.  Many fights have been started over someone reading emotion into texts.  The tone of your voice can make a huge difference in what you are saying is interpreted.  I really can't give you a great example because you are reading and not listening.  LOL  Be gentle in speech.

Understand also that just because someone sees something differently than you that you are not right and they are not wrong.  People don't have to agree on everything.  People don't have to be the same.  But just because someone is different doesn't mean they are wrong or stupid or silly.  You may not cry at a movie, but if your friend does, then what's the big deal?  You may not like mushrooms on your pizza, but if your friend does, who cares?  These are pithy examples I know, but you can take that to any level you'd like.  Life is way too short to get mad over something trivial or to give up on someone just because you don't see eye to eye on everything. Paul even told the Philippians to value others above ourselves.  Give in sometimes.  Compromise is the key to many relationships.

That brings me to what I really wanted to share.  Take responsibility for your actions.  The one problem I really see in your generation (in general, not you) is blame throwing.  "It's not my fault!"  Sometimes it might not be your fault, but many times fault doesn't matter!  Once something has happened it can't be taken back.  Blaming someone is like shutting the barn door after the horse has gotten out!  It does no good.  If you mess up, suck it up and take the blame, apologize and move on.

With that being said, I am sorry to those of you who I have been short with lately or whiny, or needy or sensitive or even angry.  While I can use many factors as an excuse, I won't.  It's me.  I know when I am feeling that way and I should just shut down at that point.  There are things going on with me right now that simply sometimes make me not me.  This being a public blog I would rather not go into them at this point.  If you were invited to read this and want to ask me questions feel free.  I will answer them as honestly as I can. But I do apologize to each of you.  I especially apologize to my best friend who has taken the brunt of much of my problems but doesn't deserve to.  We talk daily and I don't know what I would do without her.  Yes, her.  I feel I have damaged our friendship and for that I am truly sorry.  I can't undo it, just ask for forgiveness which I ask from each of you.

I also need to apologize to a dear friend who asked me to be a part of her special day today, but I can't participate and I feel so bad about it.  I so wish I could share in your celebration.  Please send me a pic?  God bless you and I am proud of you!

Well it's almost 3am.  I have thought and rambled long enough.  Thank you all who made it to the end.  If you did, you are a true friend.  I am very fortunate to have so many young people who care.  Some people don't show they care very well, but just because they don't show it doesn't mean they don't.  Some people just show it in different ways.  I end with 3 words I feel are so important that we should hear (or read) them everyday from someone who cares.  3 words that some have problems with because our society has perverted the meaning of the last word.  But for those of you who know me, know I mean them and you know the way in which I mean them.  May God bless you with an amazing day.  I LOVE YOU!!!

Looking For God?

I did not have a very good day yesterday to be quite honest.  I had some health problems, I fell face first into a snow bank that was about 3 feet deep, I just didn't have a very good day.  But, early this morning I received a rather long text from a dear friend who was one of the very first person to be on my devo list.  Hannah Baldwin is a very special young lady to me.  We have shared many prayers with and for each other.  I love her very much.  Her text lifted my spirits and I wanted it to possibly help you this morning as well.  With her permission I am using her text and testimony as the bulk of today's devo.  Here is what she sent me this morning.

I just wanted to share my testimony with you today. It may not sound like much but it meant everything to me this morning. when you don't feel God trust me He's  there. It's 6:03 in the morning and I've never felt more of him than I do now. He's shown me more of him than I've ever seen. This morning I woke up and the devil was creeping at my day because I felt sick and I was tired. But I wasn't going to let him steal my day. So I was on my way to work and I was passing commercial bank and on the sign I don't know if I imagined it or what but I know God put it there, it said Be still and pray. And I got to work and when I came in at work it was a disaster and I was so aggravated  and I look over on the desk and I see a bracelet and it says 'walk in him' Colossians 2:6 then I go to do the laundry because all the towels are dirty which ticks me off a little bit and the quarter isn't there. You have to have a  quarter to do the laundry. Everyone will be mad if there isn't any clean towels. I search up and down for a quarter. I comeback out to the desk and in the floor under the desk in the corner where no one ever is lays a quarter. Someone tell me God isn't real and God isn't powerful because I WILL PROVE YOU WRONG

What an awesome thought.  Sometimes we want God to show us His power and His presence in some mighty show that is unmistakable.  But more often than not, God shows Himself to us in the little things, like He did for Hannah this morning.  

In Exodus 33, God is chatting with Moses and God made this promise in verse 14, "My presence will go with you and I will give you rest."  That promise was made to Moses, but it is still a promise we have today.  God promised to never leave our side and His presence will be with us always.  If we look for Him, He will give us rest.  What a great thought.  

I want to thank Hannah for her uplifting text this morning and for letting me share it with you.  If you ever have an idea for a devo, or an experience you would like shared let me know.  I would love to hear some of your testimonies whether you want them pubic or not.  I love seeing how God is working in the lives of the people I love.

Have an awesome day!  God bless you all!  I love you!!

Rumors of My Demise

Some of you know, some don't. but yesterday I was in a small car wreck.  Nothing major, a truck got out of control and was coming toward me I ran into a ditch.  I am fine, no worries.  But life in a small town is marvelous.  10 minutes later, I was killed in that car wreck!  LOL  It's funny now, but to a group of people on this list it wasn't funny at all.  They scrambled to find out what happened.  In the process of the wreck, I got out of my truck and my phone fell into a foot of snow.  I finally found it and it was off.  I figured it was gone.

I went on to the station.  My phone was off, I was working.  Long story short, when I turned on my phone I had a ton of texts asking me if I was ok, please text me back, etc.  One text explained what had happened and I texted everyone back as soon as possible.

I was talking with some of these players last night and one statement stood out.  "I thought this morning was my last chance to talk to you and I didn't reply"

James 4:14 tells asks a great question:  "You don't even know what will happen tomorrow.  What is your life?  You are a mist that lasts for a little while and then vanishes."

We really don't know when our life is going to end.  I don't say this to scare you, Yesterday I "died" for about an hour.  People felt terrible.  People were upset, sad, worried, concerned.  Why?  I am not totally sure.  One young lady said, "Actually, I knew I would have to be happy for you.  You would be up there partying with God, but you know me.  I'd be selfish.  I need you for advice."  I was happy that some people felt they would miss me, but I also felt weird that others were worried because they thought I was gone.  But I am ready to die. I don't have a death wish but I'm not afraid of death.

The lesson?  Don't take life for granted.  Don't take people for granted.  Let people know how you feel just in case tomorrow never comes.  Also, be ready.  Be ready for heaven. If you ever have any question about your salvation I am always here for you.

If I had died yesterday, I hope you know that I love you!  Have an amazing day!

Some Past Devo's In Case You Missed Them

Genesis

Gen 1:27 “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” The creator of an object defines that object, Don't let the opinion of others define you. You are created in God's image, that makes you special in His eyes. He loves you unconditionally as His child and creation. Have an amazing day in the Lord!

Psalms

In Psalm 9:1 David writes, “I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” This was written shortly after the death of David’s newborn son. Yet David found it right and proper to give God thanks and to tell others of His greatness! I know you are going through a difficult time, but God is in control and He has a plan. Today, God will give you 86,000 seconds as His gift to you. I challenge you to take 2 of those seconds and say, "Thank You, Lord" Have an amazing day!

Ever been afraid? David was being pursued by a large army of Philistines, and he was afraid! He wrote about his feelings in Psalm 56 in a prayer to God. What did he do when he was afraid? Verse 3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” In verse 11 he asks a great question, “What can man do to me?” The answer is nothing! Trust in God when you face fear. Have a fantastic day! I love you!

One of my favorite verses in scripture is Psalm 73:26 “My body and my mind may become weak, but God is my strength. He is mine forever.” This verse is great you athletes. In a game you get tired both physically and mentally, God will give you strength. The same goes for life. This verse has become more special to me since my diagnosis of Parkinson’s. My body is weak, but God is my strength, He lets me get out of bed each day. God will be with you, He is yours forever. Have an amazing day!


Psalm 119:9 “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.“ I pray daily that you stay pure, that you do not get caught up in the traps of life. But my prayers are not enough. You must do your part and the Psalmist says this is accomplished by living according to the Word of God. Is there dust on your Bible? I encourage you to get in the Word, read your Bible daily. The only way to live according to the Word is to know the Word. God bless you today!

Psalm 121:1" I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." What an awesome ttruth that the One who made the world is our source of help! So many times we want to fix the junk in our life on our own, but we have the One who made us as our source of help. If you want your phone fixed, who is best to fix it, you or the company who made the phone? Trust God! Have a blessed day!


Ps 122:1 “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord.’” Today is Sunday, I hope you go to church and worship. But do you HAVE to go to church today or do you GET to go to church today. Your attitude will determine your experience in worship. Enter worship today with a glad heart!! God bless!

Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because you made me in an amazing and wonderful way.” God made you an amazing and wonderful person. You are HIS creation and He loves you. Don’t let anybody tell you that you aren’t special. Don’t let anyone else define you or label you. You are a child of the King! Have a blessed day!

Proverbs
While at the doc’s office the other day, the nurse said, “I know you are in pain, why are you smiling?” I said, “Do you feel better because I am smiling?” To which she replied, “Yes, I do!” Let’s face it, a smiling face makes us feel better. Solomon knew this when he wrote in Proverbs 15:30 “A cheerful look brings joy to the heart” If you only smile when taking a selfie then you aren’t bringing joy to anyone’s heart. Smile today! Make someone feel good! I am hurting right now, but I am still smiling! God bless you today!


Proverbs 16:9 “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” There are so many things we may want to do in life. We can plan but without God our plans are worthless. Whatever you want to do, include God. Have a great day!

Prov 17:17 “A friend loves at all times…” Friends are great! A true friend knows your flaws, but loves you anyway. Think of this today, to have a true friend, you have to be a true friend. I consider you my friend and I am not ashamed to say that I love you friend. Share the love today with your friends! God bless your day!

Isaiah

In Isaiah's prophecy concerning Messiah, he calls Jesus "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Peace. Isn't that what we all want? Jesus is the Prince of Peace. This Christmas, with all the hustle and bustle, stop for a moment and realize your source of peace....Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas, God Bless you and I love you!


Lamentations

I have heard it many times. “I have made way too many mistakes for God to love me.” That simply isn’t true. In a little book in the OT we read , “ The faithful love of the Lord never ends. His mercies never cease.” (Lamentations 3:22 ) In other words, God’s love and mercy is bigger than all your mistakes combined. Today just know God loves you, mistakes and all. He only asks that you love Him back. Have a wonderful day!!

Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” For many this week or perhaps next, an activity known as “Sr Night” will take place. Some will cry, some won’t, some will feel sadness, some relief. What we all must understand is that life is full of stepping stones. Rather than seeing an activity as the “end” of something, see it as the next step to another. If we step with God, we need not fear any activity. God bless your Friday!!

Matthew

Matthew 5:16 "....let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." No matter what you do, whether a student, an athlete, a pizza maker, burger flipper or a preacher, be an example of how a Christian should live their lives. Not so people will say how good you are, but will give the honor to God because you are His child. Have a blessed day!!

Matthew 6:14 "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." One of the most difficult things for humans to do is forgive. But look at what Jesus said could be the price of not forgiving others....God will not forgive you. That's a hefty price to pay to hold a grudge. When others wrong you, shake it off! Players gonna play, haters gonna hate, shake it off and forgive. Have a blessed Lord's Day!

Today is the last Sunday of 2014. This year has been full of ups and downs for me and I'm sure for you as well. Sometimes during those down times we tend to run from God when in fact it is during those times we need to run to God. Jesus said in Matt 11:28 " Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.". In those times of need run to Jesus and rest in His love. God bless

John

Jesus said in John 13:35 “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” We often use “love” in many different ways. We love our significant other, we love our parents and we love pizza. All in many different ways of course. Jesus says we are to “love” one another. This love is a totally different love. It’s the love of God. So when I tell you I love you, I do! I love you with the Christian love that identifies us as brothers and sisters in Christ. Love one another! Don’t be afraid to say it! Have an awesome day! Always remember and don’t ever forget…I love you!

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Jesus knew we'd have trouble at times in this world. But how awesome is it that we can find peace in Him because He has overcome the world. Have an amazing day! Love ya!!


Romans

Romans 12: 15 “Share the happiness of those who are happy, the sorrow of those who are sad.16 …Don’t become snobbish but take a real interest in ordinary people.” We are to be people of compassion. Sharing each others joys and burdens. It might cost you time and social status, but never be ashamed to be a friend or of a friend. Compassion is more than , “I’m sorry.” Compassion says, “What can I do for you? How can I help?” It’s taking a call at 3am or going to someone’s house just because they need you. Be a compassionate friend. God bless!


Philippians

Phil 3:13b-14 "....Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Forgetting what is behind. That is so hard sometimes. But I'm convinced that God isn't so concerned about where you've been as He is about where you are going. Don't let Satan allow your past to define you. Don't drive through life focusing on the rear view mirror. You will wreck. God bless and have a wonderful day!!

Philippians 4: 6 “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.” Don’t worry? But what about that pimple on my nose? Don’t worry? I don’t have a prom date! Don’t worry? That’s what Paul said, don’t worry Pray! Tell God what you need, He may not always say yes, but don’t worry because He knows what is best for you! And don’t forget to thank Him for all He’s done! Have a wonderful day!!

Most of us know Phil 4:13 by heart, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." But do we really know why Paul wrote those words? To understand we must look at the previous verses. In vs 11 Paul says, "i have learned the secret to being content." He then goes on to say he has been full and hungry, he has had everything and nothing, but the secret is contentment with what you have because Christ can get you through everything. As Christmas approaches, be content, don't be concerned with what you didn't get, be happy and feel blessed with what you do. God bless, love you!

I'm convinced that God isn't so concerned about where you've been as He is about where you are going, Don't let Satan bring up your past. As a Christian God has forgiven your past and is looking forward to how you can praise Him today and in he future. Paul wrote "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Phil 3:13-14

Phil 4:4 "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" It's easy to rejoice when life is good isn't it? But we aren't told to only rejoice in the good times. We are told to rejoice ALWAYS. Even when things aren't going our way, we are to rejoice in the Lord. This morning it took me 15 minutes just to get out of bed because of Parkinson's. But I did get out of bed and for that I rejoice. Have a wonderful day! God bless you!

I Timothy

In 1 Tim 4:12 Paul tells his protege to not let anyone look down on him just because he is young. I feel young people have an incredible potential for God. I believe in you but you must also believe in yourself. Paul goes on to say that young people need to be examples for others in everything. Especially in your speech and in purity. Show others how awesome I know you are. God bless! Love ya!

James

James 1:22 “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” Listening to your coach, teacher, parents, etc is awesome, but listening is not enough. Your coach may tell you what to do in a certain situation, but if you don’t do what was said, you will let your team down. Knowing what the Bible says is not enough either, you must follow what it tells you do or you let God down. Don’t just read it, live it. Have a blessed day

James 4: 17 "Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." Most people want to avoid this verse. But it is so important. Don't think you can do nothing and that's alright. Doing nothing can often be worse than doing something. If you know what's right but decide to ignore it, you've disappointed someone and God. Have a wonderful day!!

I John

I John 4: 7 “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.” Today is Valentine’s Day. A day we use to celebrate love. The day will be celebrated by some, hated by others, depending on your relationship status. Regardless, my challenge today is to think about God’s love for us. I John 4:9 tells us how God showed His love for us, the sacrifice of Jesus. Because of this we can have eternal life. Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you!


I John 4:9 "God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him." Wow! God loves you so much He sent Jesus to die for you! That means you are extremely special to God! You are His child! Don't let anyone else make you feel like you are nothing. You are a child of the King! God bless! Love ya!!!

Friendship is Not for the Weak

Proverbs 20:6Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable?

Do you have a lot of friends? Some people claim to have hundreds of friends, some even thousands. I just looked on my Facebook page (yes, I still have Facebook) and it says I have 2,325 friends. I am here to tell you that I don't have that many friends. I might know that many people, but many are acquaintances, not true friends.

If you are receiving this devotion today however, I consider you a friend. A loyal friend in fact and I thank God for you daily. Many of you are young, much younger than I, but who says old people can't be friends with young people and vice versa? I learn a great deal from you all. In recent weeks I have learned what "swag" is, I have been introduced to Snap Chat (preacherfig if you want to add me), I have learned I have a "strong selfie game," but more importantly I have a revived hope in your generation. You all have given me a great deal of confidence that our world is not as bad as some want to think. Thank you for being my friend.

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A friend is a treasure. True friends can tell each other things no other can. Solomon says in Proverbs 12:26 "The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray." Be a godly friend. Your true friends deserve that.

Here is my challenge for the day. There is no school so you have plenty of time. I want you to text, snap, email, DM, IM, however you wish and tell some of your closest friends you are thankful for them and why. Don't take friendship for granted. The best way to keep a friend is to be a friend who shows appreciation. I have learned over the past few months how important friends are. Most of you I have really only gotten to know or really gotten closer to since August. On August 8th I made a decision to help as many young people as possible and to be their friend. I know to some it is weird to have an old codger like me want to be friends with young folk like you. But God has given me the ability to relate to you in a way some adults just can't. I have had friends in their teens since I was a teen. Being a camp dean I have hundreds of friends your age. I don't see it as weird, I see it as a blessing. As a matter of fact, my best friend in the whole world is your age. Weird? Not to us. It's a blessing from God.

Remember the challenge for the day! Tell your friends you care and why. I will be doing that later today myself. Expect a text.

I love you all dear friends, God bless and have a great day off from school and be careful in the snow.

Social Media and the High School Athlete

Unless you have had your head under a rock for the past few years,  you have a Twitter account,  Instagram, maybe even holding on to a Facebook account to keep up with a grandma.  You know everything there is to know about social media, right?  Well, maybe not. 

In a recent study conducted by the National Association of College Admission Counseling it was revealed that “Social media outlets have influenced the way that the current generation of graduating high school students communicates, gathers knowledge and makes decisions. Therefore, social media has also influenced the way that admission offices recruit and potentially select students.”  (National Associaton for Colege Admission Counselors, 2009) Catch those last 3 words, potentially select students.  No laws currently prohibit private universities from using applicants’ verified social media profiles as criteria for admission.  And no laws prohibit any institution from using search engines to find you on the net.

“Students’ social media and digital footprint can sometimes play a role in the admissions process,” says Christine Brown, the executive director of K-12 and college prep programs at Kaplan Test Prep. “It’s something that is becoming more ubiquitous and less looked down upon.”  (Singer, 2013)  In other words, be careful what you tweet if you want to go to college. 

This is especially true if you want to be a college athlete.    Many college coaches in America now ask for your twitter information when the recruiting process begins.  You may think they want to follow you so that they can let you know of certain events coming up.  What they are doing is checking up on you.  So you think you can just erase any embarrassing tweets?  Wrong.  There are many services out there than can track every tweet you’ve ever sent.  Just because you delete it, doesn’t mean it goes away.

Let’s get straight to the point.  YOU chose to be a student athlete at your school.  With that choice comes a responsibility:  to represent your school in a positive way.  The name across the front of your jersey is not just the name of the team, it is every student, teacher , janitor, administrator, etc at that school.  Don’t disgrace them by having twitter fights or using inappropriate language on social media sites.  Don’t post pics that might lead to hurt feelings or that you know will draw negative attention to you or your team.  Sometimes what you may consider a joke isn’t funny to anyone but you.

How embarrassing would it be if the school you wanted to attend told you that your academics are great, your skills are awesome, but you aren’t the type of person they want on their team or on their campus  because of your Twitter profile?

 Here are some guidelines I suggest for you:

1.  Think before you post.  Is this something I would want my grandmother or preacher to see? 

2.  Never post in anger.  You WILL REGRET a post made in anger at some point in your life.

3.   Remember everything you post is public information.   Whatever you put out there is beyond your control once it is sent. 

4.  What you post will affect your future, whether in the academic or career world.  Employers are using your posts to determine if you are the type person they want working for them as well.

5.  You are establishing your identity though social media.  How you talk, how you are dressed in pictures, what you send in SnapChats, all of these areas, fairly or unfairly, define who you are to many people who don’t truly know you, but think they do by how you represent yourself in social media.

From a purely spiritual stand point, I have been disappointed many times by what I have seen from youth group members at the church where I minister, FCA members, campers from the church camp where I Dean and just young people I thought I knew, but their social media profile was much different than how they represented themselves to me.  If you call yourself a Christian, you are representing  your church and your Lord.  Even on social media.

References:

National Associaton for Colege Admission Counselors. (2009). Social Media: Considerations and Implications in College Admission. Research to Practice .

Singer, N. (2013, November 9). They Loved Your G.P.A. Then They Saw Your Tweets. New York Times .

Compassion

I am concerned that we have lost our compassion.  Too many times we are too concerned about ourselves and less concerned about others.  Yet Paul said in Romans 12: ^15 “Share the happiness of those who are happy, the sorrow of those who are sad.¹⁶ …Don’t become snobbish but take a real interest in ordinary people.”  

We are to be people of compassion.  Sharing each others joys is easy, sometimes.  Sometimes when something good happens to others however, we get jealous.  Sharing burdens can be more difficult..  That might cost you time and maybe even some social status.Paul says to not be ashamed of being a friend with anyone.  If you have a friend who others may not approve of, don't be ashamed if that person is a true friend. Never be ashamed to be a friend or of a friend.  

Compassion is more than , “I’m sorry.” Compassion says, “What can I do for you?  How can I help?” It’s taking a call at 3am or going to someone’s house just because they need you. Compassion is not selfish.  Compassion says, "I am here no matter the circumstances, no matter how long it takes, no matter what it is you need me to do."  Compassion is more than telling someone you will pray for them, it's praying with them,  Whether in person or by phone. Don't dismiss a problem no matter how small you think it is.  There might be more to the story.  Go the extra mile.  If you text me and tell me you are in need of anything, I promise you I will do whatever you need if it is as all possible.

 Be a compassionate friend.  I challenge you today to tell a friend that they are special to you and that if they need you, no matter what, you are there.  We all have fiends that others are wondering, "Why are you their friend?"  Tweet that friend, not direct message, tweet them and tell them you are glad you are friends.  Let others see you are not ashamed to be friends with someone different than you.  I realize this might be difficult, but think what that might do for someone else.  I guarantee it will bring a smile to their face and joy to their heart.  That would be worth any ridicule you might encounter.

God bless you today!  

A Change in Perspective

Deuteronomy 4:9 “But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live!"

Life changed for me forever on August 8, 2014.  That day I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. (PD)   I was 47, PD is for old people, or so I thought.  After the initial shock wore off, I decided that this disease was not going to define me.  I decided that God had a purpose behind this whole situation and I was going to find a way to honor Him through the whole situation.

One of the main changes I made in my life was a change in perspective.  Life, to me, WAS a series of events.  Days that led into weeks, that led into months, etc.  Now, life, to me, IS a vehicle for memories.  A laugh from my grandson Mason.  Broadcasting ball games with my son Tucker.  A dinner date with my daughter Tori.  Dinner and a show with my wife Tina.  A text from wonderful people who care about me.  A church service with a wonderful church family.  A snowy morning on Radio Hill.  Talking with student athletes before and after a game.  Interacting with wonderful coaches and players.  Visiting schools to see kids from church.  All of these events make up life and add to memories.

We all take pictures of important events.  Newborn babies, graduation, prom, homecoming, Senior Night, birthday parties, weddings, etc.  Why?  To remember.  They add to our memories.  But life is an important event.  The people we come in contact with daily are important too.  Someone knew this because they invented a vehicle for us to share those memories.  It's called Instagram.  Think about it, IG is a way for us to share our memories with others.  Daily memories.  A history of our lives in pictures.

Since my diagnosis I have been taking pictures like crazy.  One person dear to me told my I had a strong "selfie game" and she was right!  Why?  Memories.  I don't want to forget those closest to me.  So I take pictures with them for that purpose.  So if you are out and about and I ask you for a "selfie" please know why.  Sometimes I am reluctant to ask because I am not sure of your feelings about taking  a pic with an old codger!  I realize it could be embarrassing.  So if you see me out and about, ask me for a pic.  I will never say no to that request.  I want to preserve as many memories as possible.  

My change in perspective has given me a wonderful new outlook on life.  I challenge you to not see life as a day at school, a week of testing, but as a life of memories.  God bless and have a wonderful day!!