Isn’t really all that much of an occasion, except that it marks the certainty of passing time, reminds me that the clock is ticking, and challenges me to take stock and do something with my life.
For a while I’ve thought of my life, in family, work, friendship and play, as being about creating community, and creating, protecting, and developing life as a disciple under the lordship of Jesus, and helping others to do the same. The hows and the venues where those things happen are always changing, but I think it’s a way of thinking about who I am, what I want to become, and what I want to be about, that’s pretty helpful for me.
I want to draw people together.
I want to help the things that make life like it ought to be, and push against those things that destroy or distort life.
I want to learn from Jesus about what life is really like, and submit to that vision. I want to help others learn from him as well.
It’s not all that complicated, but it’s a hard way to live. Some days, by the grace of God, I nail it. Some days, by that same grace, perhaps, I fall terribly short and am reminded to press on. In the middle of all those days, I become more aware of how incredible the journey is.
I’m having a great birthday. I have so much gratitude in my heart today, am so thankful for the incredible family and friends I share life with. Thank you.
(If you want to celebrate life today, and push against evil a little bit, may I recommend you check out Kiva.org, or maybe charity:water? I’d be honored if you’d check these guys out, and consider it a most excellent gift!)
