
Yesterday was Easter and it might feel like it is over. The celebration of Jesus rising from the death, Easter Bunnies, Eggs and going to church. Thinking over it all, it's not over but just the beginning. Jesus rose from the grave for not just one day, but for everyday of life. In order to know Jesus, you must pursue him. Each day is a new beginning and right choices to be made.
Philippians 3:12-14 English Standard Version (ESV)
Straining Toward the Goal
12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
THIS PAST WEEKEND ~
Has shown me the love of God even more. Reflecting back on what Jesus did on earth and what he did for us hanging upon a cross. He truly did come to our rescue over life's battles. It doesn't matter what we face, we know we have the ability to pray, believe and walk by faith. There will be time of not knowing what God is up to, but he is up to something good. Change begins inside of you and reaching out side to other.
Simple Definition of Athlete ~
: a person who is trained in or good at sports, games, or exercises that require physical skill and strength
Everyday as I look into the sky, I see it different daily. I also see the power of God through the wind, the stars at night and how things continue to change. Change is not always easy for our lives but we must put a trust in God that is determined to press forward. An Athlete continues training for the goal they continue to reach for in life. Just crossing that finish line is enough for some, but others want to be the first, second or maybe the third to win. The key is doing your best and never giving up!
In my own life, there were times I just got tired of trying to do the right thing. I spent 40 years trying to make my mom happy and she never got over the death of my dad. Sadness consumed her in her early 40's when he died. I finally realized it was up to her to get back up again and start a new normal. People go through things in life that we can't do nothing about but be there. I was consumed with my own sorrow of my dad leaving earth and I was only 18 years old. I would cry myself to sleep and hear her crying in the living room for hours. Such a big experience for a teenager and I moved forward. It was hard and still hard when I think about certain things.
Today is a new day and I believe God has a plan in our lives. Through it all, I've learned to trust in Jesus and keep the faith. A faith that is hard at times, but I won't give up believing the best is yet to come. I know that days of sorrow happens to each of us, but I also know that the Bible says that Joy comes in the morning. A fresh new day and a new start. It's like we at the starting line of training and we will press forward today. Here we go, off to believe BIG and off to keep running this race of life with hope, determination and no way will we give up!
DETERMINATION ~
I WILL PRESS FORWARD
Remind yourself that Jesus in not on that cross anymore. He came to save us, give up hope and continued love. Love beyond limits and love that truly is real. As a kid, I remember hearing one message at church. We didn't go all the time, but once in a while we did. I sat there in a service and heard about FAITH. Something happen that day and I have believed big that God can do all things.
Philippians 4:13 King James Version (KJV)13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Believing with me today, reach out to God and ask largely. Reach out with your heart and allow him to bring peace where there seems to be no peace. Allow freedom to enter your mind and soul to rest in this day. Take one day at a time and know this: YOU ARE IMPORTANT
My prayers continue to be with you, your family and friends!
~ Sparkie