January 2004
"SMILE - MOMENT - JOY - LIFE"
A family for whom I was asked to do a committal service at the
cemetery,
sent a card and written note of appreciation. The unusual part of this
experience was the card.
Evidently Amanda Bradley writes for the Hallmark Card Company. On the
face
of the card she wrote what I suggest we use and practice for New Year's
resolutions. None of them seem to be difficult and all will bring
rewards,
if practiced.
"One SMILE. And blessed be the person who will share it."
Emotionally,
sometimes a smile is costly. However, changes and rewards usually
follow.
I think Jesus would like for us to smile more than we do, don't you?
"One MOMENT. And blessed be the person who will spare it." Whom
among us
doesn't feel pressed for time? It seems to be the order of the day,
doesn't
it? Date books, schedules, phones, faxes, e-mails. Each tries to make
a
demand on our time. But, one moment? It doesn't seem like much, but
what a
difference it can make, when shared.
"One JOY. To lift a spirit. And blessed be the person who will give
it."
The large world out there is seeking happiness. Some have already
discovered that the "happiness" of Christmas has flown away. Why?
"Things"
are not the foundation for fulfillment. Doesn't Scripture talk about
"remaining joy"? This is experienced only with Christ. No earthly
thing,
or person, can give us joy. It takes Jesus.
"One LIFE. To make a difference. And blessed be the person who will
live
it." Constantly we are reminded of the value of life. A tragedy. A
fire.
An accident. Terminal diseases. And life on this earth, as we know
it, is
over. A family member. An extended family member. A friend. An
acquaintance. All of these talk to us about life.
The Apostle James poses for us a very significant question about life.
His
words are, "For what is your life?" Have you made your life narrow by
not
sharing it? You have been given talents, special gifts, uniqueness.
Not
one of us is a copy of someone else. Jesus came to give us life. "And
life
more abundantly," spoke Jesus. "Try giving yours away" and discover
what
rewards you receive in return.
Thank you, Amanda.
If each of us will practice these suggestions during 2004, I can make
you a
guarantee. You will experience the greatest year you have ever lived.
God bless each of you with a wonderful year, lived with God in your
life.
That is my wish for you in 2004.
your friend and Pastor, John
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