Like Riding a Bike

When was the last time you rode a bike? Nobody is asking you to take a little adventure today.  But even if this was the goal, you would not fear because years ago, you mastered this challenge. Sure, the handle bars might shake a little and you might not travel in a ruler-precise straight line for the first few seconds but you’ll quickly remember and begin riding as well as you did the last time you tried.

This is good news!  On to bigger and better things, then.

Seasonal Apathy

During the holidays, we’re exposed to constant and repetitive commercials.  Maybe not because we're a captive audience (like the Super Bowl), but more because we’re captive to holiday spending.  I gave up the search for how much advertising might cost for our favorite holiday movies; It’s a Wonderful Life, Elf, Home Alone, Miracle on 34th Street, The Grinch, White Christmas and more.  But I’m sure that the marketing teams analyze average view rates and are charged accordingly.

This article began when I recently saw the Hershey's Christmas Kisses commercial.  It was surprising to me that it was still being aired.

The "R" Factor

While listening to a talk a few weeks ago, I heard something about the fact that our prayers frequently center on the concept of rescue. It was pointed out that following Jesus isn’t really about rescue but more about redemption.  The presented premise was focused on the concept that in the midst of troubles we are being shaped by a redeeming fire to 'strengthen our steel' which enables us to handle the plans God has for us.

First, I recognized that my prayer life rarely considers that God is already working in and around me - always for good.

Second, I infrequently recognize that He uses difficult circumstances to redeem mind and heart, thereby making me a little more like I was meant to be.

Then, I got a little quirky.  It happens.