“I used to feel inconvenienced when I was asked to give. Things have changed. Now I don’t want to miss participating in things that last forever.” [Pg 174] In her book Jennie is beginning to sum things up and asking us, ‘do we want to participate in something that lasts forever?' Jennie isn’t talking about time generally as in I'll love you forever, or like time here on our planet, or even meaning the lifetime of our planet itself. No. She’s talking about that eternal time when we enter the presence of Jesus, or the world ends (whichever comes first). So then the question becomes ‘what can we offer that makes a difference in another's forever, eternity? Maybe we have lives filled with family, friends, lay-ministry, service in our community and school or other volunteering. Do activities like this make that difference? I can only speak for myself in defining what could matter. 1. I pray for my family, friends, the prayer team, our nation, and others. Prayer does make a huge difference. Maybe we don't see it, or perhaps may never know this side of heaven but Scripture reads: "In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed." Mark 1.35 The example being if Christ, whose purposes were so full, found prayer to be a priority and important for God's cause and their relationship, then wouldn't my attention to prayer also be important and necessary? 2. I try to encourage and support others pointing to God's work and love. God is at work in our lives in ALL things. "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8.28 When struggles come, and they will, God has to be our default. He is our strength, power, and endurance in all things, even and especially when we don't understand. 3. I try to follow God's precepts for the example it gives our grandchildren who are literally the love and light of my heart. Their best gift is to see that in all things nanny loves God and trusts him. I don't always measure up, I'm sure you could guess that. But I am aware of the difference these efforts make and I try to be that good example of faithfulness. "Your shall put these words of mine in your heart and soul, ... Teach them to your children, talking about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be multiplied ... " Deuteronomy 11.18a, 19-21a So, does my life even remotely resemble Jennie's? Maybe. The question is am I helping make an eternal difference in someones life? Are you? Don't assume you need to be exactly like Jennie to have that eternal impact for someone. Follow your gifts and callings ... it will be okay. He'll use it all... (: ~ Andi
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