In the opening scene of American Beauty screenwriter Alan Ball introduces Lester Burnham. Played by Kevin Spacey, Lester shares that he has been dead inside for sometime. Lester’s not sure how or when this happened, but something in his soul can’t stand the person that he has become. This confession sets the stage for Lester to wake up from this spiritual slumber so that he can truly live once again.
In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God [b]Himself.2 He was present originally with God. 3 All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him was not even one thing made that has come into being, John 1:1-3.
Ten years ago, I was living a dream, teaching the Bible to high school teenagers and coaching golf. While it took me nearly 40 years to discover God’s will for my life, I was blessed by God for a decade as spiritual fruits began to blossom. Unfortunately, when Red Lion Christian Academy was sold and the church was disbanded, a part of me died. After pouring my heart and soul into this institution, I was fired and left leaving like a failure.
In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men. 5 And the Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it], John 1:4-5.
Like Lester’s character in American Beauty, joy returned to me in the midst of sorrow. While attending a memorial service for two members of the Hanson family over the weekend, spending time with my extended family brought a new appreciation for life. You never know when your time will be up; when your life will permanently expire. Therefore, it’s time to live by start taking chances and try to become all that God wants you to be. As I start to wake up from my spiritual slumber, join me by opening up to know the living God.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 