We become like those with whom we spend time. The character, attitudes, actions, and beliefs of those we associate with rub off on us. And likewise we must be careful to maintain our character and integrity when we’re with others. We want others to follow our example as we follow Christ’s example.
When I see a football player do his “touchdown dance,” pound his chest, and point to himself after a touchdown, I must wonder. It’s as if he’s saying, “I’m the only one who accomplished this task! I’m the greatest!” Too often our ego gets in the way of recognizing who gave us the opportunity to succeed.
When you tell others that you’re a Christian, what do they think you mean? To some it means you’re religious or conservative. Some may assume you’re self-righteous or judgmental. Hopefully, to many it means you are a follower of Jesus, not perfect, but forgiven.
I thoroughly enjoyed all my fishing and hunting adventures with my good friend, Jeff Klippenes. Born and raised in the backwoods of Northern Minnesota, he has a wealth of outdoor experience that adds to the excitement of every outing. One of my favorite memories of Jeff begins with his decision to purchase a consignment boat from me.
I have enjoyed the pleasure that came from several friends and mentors in my life who were in their later years. Most churches and Christian ministries today could not continue without the totality of the dedication and determination of these senior committed Christians sharing their gifts and talents.
I remember watching the longest game in NFL history on Christmas Day in 1991. It ran for 82 minutes and 40 seconds, finally ending with a field goal by Garo Yepremian that allowed the Dolphins to win 27-24. I couldn’t help but think about the pressure Garo must have felt in that final moment.
Nowadays, we face many social and peer pressures to conform and be compliant. People tell us “not to rock the boat,” but to trust political leaders and media sources that try to intimidate us. It is noteworthy when someone stands up for their faith and convictions, others gain confidence to join with us, for courage is contagious.
That’s our destiny and our charge, is it not? To be so much like Jesus that people cannot tell the difference as we live and interact with a world that is blind to His love, life, and grace… If we claim to know Him, we should live, walk, and act as He would. Knowing Him is so much more than simply quoting scripture and going to church. It’s living the Word as life unfolds day to day.
Many people are on a quest to find what the world defines as “success” and “personal happiness.” Our culture provides countless models of wealthy, famous, well-dressed people who project that if we can just become like them, we’ll be happy. But what Hollywood and professional sports often project as “winners” are really unhappy and unfulfilled people.
How can grandparents use their “grand positions” to the best advantage? God’s Word says that grandchildren are “a crown to the aged” (Proverbs 17:6). I believe we wear that “crown” by actively investing in their lives. There are five tools I’ve found helpful in being a grandparent or adopted grandparent:
Grandparents have another magical ingredient that parents often lack – TIME. Kornhaber has found that children who are close to at least one grandparent are more emotionally secure than other children; and they have more positive feelings about older people and about the process of aging.
A tribute to our beloved lab, Penny. May we follow her example of serving our Lord and one another with a selfless love. May we be as pleasing and devoted to our Master as our Penny was to us.
