Emblazoned Days

Think of a special day in your life that remains emblazoned upon your memory because of it's significance. You know you will never forget it because of it's impact. But why not make every day a day of significance? I must admit, there are far too many days that pass without reference because I failed to utilize them to their full. While I thank God for each day, sadly, I squander. Oh - what a waste to squander a gift so precious and rare - for it will not come again and I've no idea what tomorrow holds.

I will set out to bless and accomplish at least one thing that will emblazon this date in my heart! And as a reminder - you can't go wrong with 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a:

⁴Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.⁵It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.⁶Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.⁷It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

⁸Love never fails.

Attitude of Gratitude - You On Purpose

Today I am grateful that we are all “wired” differently – so unique in looks, size, shape, perspective, life experience, dream, goals, and gifts. Truly our gifts are meant to bless one another…and God’s gifts have been so gracious and so very big, yet required only a word on His part. Amazing that we will look in the mirror and find every fault – each new sign that we are a day older and criticize what God called “very good” and created “in His image.”

While we may see the beauty in others – we do not see what they see in us. How we take for granted that great and awesome heritage and the One Who delights in us so. Remember you are important enough that He knows your name – and yes, even the number of hairs on your head.

I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful , I know that full well. Psalm 139:14

When we look around – let us not only see the beauty in another, but join in the celebration He intends – LIVING ON PURPOSE – and proclaiming loudly:
O Lord, what a variety You have made! And in wisdom You have made them all! The earth is full of Your riches. Psalm 104:24

Attitude of Gratitude - Blessing - on Purpose

In response to all He has done for us, let us outdo each other in being helpful and kind to each other and in doing good. Hebrews 10:24 (TLB)

Today we all rest warmly in the knowledge that we live with a roof over our head and I can imagine a bounty of blessings that are beyond the imagination of others in our country and world. So today – whether your wealth is of joy, love, monetary, gratitude – show it. Live it out ON PURPOSE.

There's often someone struggling with packages in a store - a door held open with a smile would be a gift at that moment. What about the person with the stressed look and one item in the grocery store who had the unhappy luck of finding no free lines - surely they are on their way somewhere and fretting being late. Wouldn't a welcome switch in line be a gift?
How about helping your neighbor with the lights or what about the neighbor you've noticed normally celebrates big and there's no sign this year....wouldn't a beautiful wreath and a "how are you?" bless them?

ON PURPOSE - Let's outdo one another showing love and compassion for others and each other.

Attitude of Gratitude - Roadblock or Building Block?

I am reminded today by processes and events that surround us daily, how we have the opportunity to be roadblocks or building blocks to peace, harmony and ultimately love in every circumstance. We’ve been taught since childhood that we are …to love one another. As I have loved you…. (John 13:34b-35a)

What does that look like? I believe it is a turning away from strife and speaking ill of another. I believe it is in the gratitude for this day that is allowed to flow and be passed on to those around you. Regardless this day of my own illness, injury, tiredness or sadness, I have a choice and with it an opportunity to make a difference for good this day…to live this day on purpose and for a greater purpose than mere existence.

Nicole Nordeman put it this way in one of my favorite songs – Legacy.

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to You enough To make a mark on things
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace Who blessed Your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qLL6W2-gJo

This is my goal…to leave that kind of legacy.
So, 19Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (Romans 14:19)