New and Exciting

I enjoyed a cup of coffee this morning with a friend with whom I share much in common. Even though our years are not so common, we find ways to encourage one another just in sharing what God is doing in each of our lives. In addition to both being Nebraska natives and working in the technology field, we serve the same God and having both married far above our social capabilities, are thankful for many of the same things.

So if we have so much in common, where do we find the mutual benefit and how do we get to new and exciting? It lies in the encouragement found in our truth system. The new and exciting comes from new perspectives regarding the journey. My friend has recently discovered that a reassignment at work, initially perceived as a step back, actually turns out to be God’s protection and blessing. I, too, am finding that life away from the bright lights has its blessings. A new season in life is beginning for me as I take on a supporting role to the position(s) I once held. Yet, I do so with great satisfaction as I have the opportunity to support and promote the success of others. Up to this point, God has blessed me with great staff and co-workers. He will now use me to support and bless others.

At my very core I am a fellow traveler, one who walks alongside others to encourage and support. No bright lights needed for this journey. In fact, this mission is best accomplished out of the limelight, in one-on-one relationships away from the trappings of leadership. To be in a position where one can touch another life without the baggage of organizational leadership, puts that touch in a very different context.

Jesus, chose not to wave His “God” banner that He so rightfully could have used. He chose not to hang His credibility on His equality with God, as part of the Godhead. Instead He took on the nature and form of a servant, consistent with the human form He had been given. When He was nearing completion of His work here on earth, He said, “You have seen me, you have seen the Father.” The life He lived here on earth was a reflection of God, the Father, who had sent Him. The Bible says that God is love. Our interactions with others should reflect that love so that when we’re done here on earth, those lives we’ve touched have felt the hand of God because our paths crossed.

When we touch a friend or neighbor, it should be as a fellow traveler, imperfect, but encouraging the other person out of our imperfections and life experiences. Will Rogers has been quoted as saying that good judgement comes from experience and a lot of that comes from bad judgement. We’re all growing and learning as we go. It is a frightening thing to come in contact with someone who portrays a “got it together” life and “sympathizes” with those who struggle. The book of Hebrews tells us to consider how we may spur one another on to love and good deeds.

Let your next interaction be a new and exciting experience for the other person. Bring life and love into that person’s life. A dear and wise friend, Barry Morrow, posted a sign on facebook today that is so appropriate for today’s society.

Be at the end of the arrow. Be that source of hope and encouragement for others in your life. I promise, it will be new and exciting for them.