During my last year as a youth pastor, I was responsible for running Confirmation, a year long class for 8th graders who sought to take ownership of their faith. Before the actual ceremony during church in the Spring, I took my group away on a retreat about 30 minutes west of Columbus, Indiana. Coming out a year earlier, I showed the movie Groundhog Day to break the ice, easing the tension for those uncomfortable with talking about God. Essentially, Bill Murray keeps repeating the same day over and over again, until he gets it right.
Unfortunately, time doesn’t stand still like this movie. However, there are several life lessons worth noting. First, too many individuals, me especially, become consumed with what they are doing, where they are going and what they need to accomplish every day. As a result, blinders prevents you from appreciating, interacting and slowing down long enough to develop permanent meaningful lasting relationships. Secondly, distracted people often don’t recognize, see or stop to help someone in need with a smile, word of encouragement or passing prayer. Finally, life is best served by embracing daily distractions that God provides. These interruptions offer opportunities to minister, nurture and uplift struggling souls.
While listening to the song Get it Right by Silverline, I sensed the urging of the Holy Spirit to write this blog. Although each day is filled with trials and errors, life is too short to keep making the same mistakes over and over again. If you are touched by these words, join me in the quest to get it right, John 10:10. Yet, when you fail, don’t give up, Galatians 6:9-10. Rather, by leaning on Christ, Philippians 4:13, believe in your heart that over time, you will get it right.
Please comment on my blog how your journey is going. This post is dedicated to Elizabeth, one of my students who gave her heart to Jesus, Romans 10:9-10, at the end of our confirmation retreat.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 