Christian Paradigm Shifts

  Last night I attended a memorial service for a loved one.   The service was beautiful and many family and friends attended the service. My brother-in-law, who is a pastor, did a wonderful job officiating.   This thought came to my mind during the service. We are all acquainted with grief in one form or another. Life can at times be painful.   But for those who have place their trust in Jesus, we do not have to grieve as those who have no hope. For our loved ones who have placed their trust in Jesus have gone to a better place.   Last night they played this song by Mark Harris. I heard it before. It was right after my sister's death several years ago. It always makes me cry. In heaven, there are no more tears, sadness, grief or pain. For our loved ones who suffered here are finally free. Take a listen. Remember. For those who have gone before us, they are suffering no more. They now await for our arrival on the other side. ...

Do  you ever wonder if what you do makes a difference? As a wife? A mother? A daughter? A sister? A co-worker? Last night we were driving home from church and we were having a time of impatience with one another. We could blame it on being tired or that it was a late night in the middle of the week.  But the thought came to my mind and I said it out loud - does it matter at all what I do? Is it all worth it? Then I heard Steven Curtis Chapman's song "Do Everything" come on my local K-Love radio station. I think God was trying to tell me something. Everything I do (including, my patience or lack thereof) impacts others,  - my husband, my child, my parents, my siblings, friends. Sometimes I impact them in a positive way and at other times it may be in a negative way. It is a choice. I am happy when it is positive. But when it is negative I dwell on it, pack my bags and go on a guilt trip. I realize I need to rely on the Holy Spirit's power ...