Happy Birthday to me!

Let me start by saying Happy Birthday to my twin, Mike Ferguson. We've shared the exact same birthday day our entire lives even though we first met when we were 11. 36 years is a long time to be friends; I'm blessed to know him - he's a special person.

So, I'm actually reading two books right now at the same time - I don't recommend it - I'm not making much progress on either one. So, nothing to share from the readings.

But I am sitting here pondering life. Not sure why! Tomorrow is my birthday; I'll be 47 - not really a huge milestone. But just 3 years from 50 so that's pretty cool! But since this has been by far the hardest, most painful year of my life thus far, I feel that reflecting, as I start another year, isn't necessarily a bad thing!

Ok, so I get the goal is heaven. I get that we need to share the Good News about Jesus to everyone we care about. And we are to care about everyone! I am cognizant of the fact that the absolute best way to stop feeling sorry for yourself in the midst of a crisis or when we are feeling blue is the serve others who are less fortunate. And I love feeling thankful. I love helping others reach their potential. So, why do I struggle - like all of us do - with feeling so insignificant. I guess it just depends on how much rejection and disappointment that we've had to experience - I know I've had my share. Your story is likely similar. How do we break out of our daily ruts and routines and get involved in front-line, life changing ministry?

Tomorrow starts my 48th year on this planet. I don't want this year to be like the past 47 years - ups and downs - hurts and disappointments - me being selfish and egocentric. I really want to make a change; I want to make a significant difference in others lives. I have decided that I am going to work with orphans/foster kids and give my disappointments over to the Lord and try with His help to make a positive difference in these young people's lives. Pray for me; pray for sustained momentum for me.

I still desire to complete SWAY and we will, but I just want this to be so much more about serving others and less about me fulfilling the desires of my heart.

Just my thoughts on my birthday eve.

James 1:27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.