Hip to be square

What color is the sky in your world? Do you zig instead of zag? Are you able to see things, people and situations around you a little differently than others? If so, it doesn’t make you unusual, it makes you unique, one of a kind and special (Ephesians 2:10). As a child, finding your place and “fitting in” meant acceptance and survival. Being part of the pack brought comfort and security. The same can be said for knowing who God is and how He works in our lives (Jeremiah 33:6). Growing up in a small town might narrow the scope of one’s vision, but it doesn’t guarantee narrow-mindedness. Conversely, being raised in the city might increase one’s exposure, but it doesn’t guarantee infinite wisdom. There is amazing power to be found in those “eureka” moments when we suddenly see the light and gain an additional measure of awareness, comprehension and understanding (Job 32:8). Rather than waste time worrying about how we are perceived or what others may think, we should celebrate our individuality and recognize that what may seem exciting and out-there to some is just as important as what may seem routine and regular to others. Marching to a different drum doesn’t condemn you to an unfulfilling life. It’s how you live it that matters most.

It's a long way there

Like the honor of “just being nominated” for an award, simply surviving a long-distance 26-mile endurance test is considered victory by those who actively engage in the sport of marathon running. Similarly, life is not a sprint, but a journey of epic proportion (1 Kings 3:14), filled with ups and downs, highs and lows, peaks and valleys, twists and turns, the expected and the unexpected. With boundless grace and the miracle of mercy, God gives each one of us gifts and talents to navigate the course He has prepared for us (Exodus 9:16). Eyes fixed firmly on the finish line, we summon our strength, stamina, agility, endurance and perseverance to run the respectable race. Bumps in the road are unavoidable, but taking a spill here or there does not signal the end of the event. Rather, we pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, offer thanks for the obstacle and realize that the hurt is always healed by the satisfaction of completing another mile (Jeremiah 32:19). Imagine Jesus at the finish line, encouraging, inspiring and motivating us to dig deeper and expend extra effort, so we may share the joy of our accomplishment. Realizing how and why we arrive at such an achievement propels us to participate, but knowing our ultimate destination is key. There’s a place up ahead and I’m going just as fast as my feet can fly.

Understand the voice within

The ability to speak out loud, albeit in many different languages and dialects, separates man from every other species on earth. The physical act of speech – the vocalized form of human communication – combined with the mental capacity to listen, interpret and respond verbally, assures that every interaction will provide a potential potpourri of possibilities (Psalm 27:7). But are we using this fabulous functionality to its fullest? And what primary purpose does our phonetic production promote (Revelation 21:3)? We know that certain reactive behaviors are often fueled by incendiary words (expressions of hate, anger, intolerance) and other actions bring legalistic consequences (libel, slander, and gossip), but we’re also aware of the positive, uplifting aspects shown through thoughtful conversation (love, encouragement, hope, inspiration, support) between two or more parties. Jesus taught in parables because people could more easily comprehend and understand his words and the intention and immediacy of his message. In the New Testament, John’s gospel makes it clear that we are to use our given oral skills to be a “voice” for Christ (John 1:23). Go ahead and make a joyful noise – and while you’re at it, make sure your voice is heard for all the right reasons.

Well, I wonder who wrote the book

For those accustomed to gaining knowledge, understanding and wisdom via the printed word, rumors that the medium is dying have been “greatly exaggerated.” You can’t beat the experience of easing into a cozy chair with a good story and a warm cocoa, then letting your imagination do the rest. So it is with the Bible (2 Samuel 22:31), even if Amazon founder Jeff Bezos would love for everyone to adopt the latest version of his hand-held gadget, Kindle, and leave more pedestrian paperbacks out of the equation altogether. Regular Scripture review, like membership, has its privileges, not only in bringing the reader into a closer relationship with God (John 1:1), but also in allowing a glimpse of the Master’s plan through the eyes and pens of 40 authors, covering sixty-six books (Isaiah 40:8). When several people read a passage and then get together to discuss an issue or idea, the active sharing of philosophies, beliefs, and interpretations benefits everyone – even if there may be a difference of perspective. Not everything you peruse at your local bookseller is completely black or white, but other than a good bargain at a discounted price, one thing is guaranteed… a read through the Bible is certain to make you stop and think. And, should it speak to the heart and call you to action, you will readily realize how fundamental reading really can be.