The Long Haul
It’s been a couple of days since I posted. Busy days and I couldn’t get geared up to write anything. I think I’m a little “aunt”sy about my nephew’s arrival. Keeping thinking he will come and he isn’t coming yet!
At different times in my life and ministry, I go through the typical evaluation stage where I wonder if I’m making a difference. I think most caring and conscientious people do this. Sometimes I can easily assure myself that I, indeed, am participating in some eternal contributions. Other days, like the last couple, I can be overwhelmed with the amount there is to do; be frustrated at the fact that on any given day there is someone who isn’t happy about a decision I have made; and wonder if what I do really matters. Don’t get me wrong, I know it sounds terribly depressing and negative and smelling of fishing-for-compliments, but that truly is not the case. I think it is a very healthy balance and humbling part of the journey. I don’t degrade myself or hit the side of my head while mumbling, “stupid, stupid, stupid”. I just mentally sit back and evaluate how I’m living life, how I’m spending my time, how I’m interacting with others and sometimes I question whether I am succeeding at living the kind of life that I won’t look back on later and regret. Well, as is typical when I swing a little to far to the self-critical side, God provides something to bring me back into the balance of confidence in him. Two of my youth girls had written posts on their websites that shared their love for me and that I have helped them in their journey with God. Katherine and Adrian – God used you today to really bless my heart. Thank you for sharing those kind thoughts with me and for loving me despite my many flaws. I don’t desire a large youth group or a crazy youth minister reputation. To have even one youth fall more in love with God makes me feel more than satisfied. I’ve struggled to get geared up for the start of another school year but these two posts reminded me that it is worth it- it is all worth it when we genuinely love one another and we encourage one another to greater depths in our relationship with God. So no matter where your world of ministry is – classroom; state office; home; grocery store – press on in the things that are most important in life and that have lasting value.
Take hold of this verse for your day:
“For as long as it’s still God’s Today, keep each other on your toes so sin doesn’t slow down your reflexes. If we can only keep our grip on the sure thing we started out with, we’re in this with Christ for the long haul.” Hebrews 3:13-14
Peace – Melissa