Reflection

It is truly amazing to me that simple things can bring such unexpected perspective on life.

Tonight, I attended an appreciation dinner for my dad, who recently resigned from his job to begin a new ministry. I was a little nervous going into it, worrying too much about what to say to them since I don't know them well. I expected the night to be good and to be honoring to my dad, but I didn't expect to be deeply impacted by it myself.

As part of the evening, his staff members - those who have worked with and for him - were given an opportunity to step up to a mic and say whatever they wanted to my dad. As they began to talk about what an example he is, what a passionate heart he has for developing healthy marriages, how he lives out the Gospel in a way they've rarely seen in other Christians, how he loves people and sees the good in them, how he "took a risk" on hiring them and trusted them, how they were so thankful for his life and ministry over the last nine years, I was reminded of how blessed I am by the family God has given me.

But even more than that, I was challenged (sorry, I've been using that word quite often lately, but it just seems to fit... Maybe convicted is a better word) to look at my own life, to examine the things I consider important. I have a sneaking suspicion that the examination might not prove positive. To live a life worth emulating, to love people in a way that changes their lives, to follow the passion God has given no matter how crazy it may seem to others - these are the things I want to do, the legacy I want to leave. I must not be motivated by the fact that doing those good things might get me recognized by others or earn me some accolades along the way, either. Purity of motive and clarity of purpose - those are things that I'm praying for, things I'm reminded that I need tonight.

So thank God for random events that spur reflection and give perspective. The next step I must take is to allow that fresh perspective to shape the way I live my life. May He give me the courage to recognize what needs changing and the strength to follow through.