It was a warm evening in Tampa on Friday. The traffic was fairly light going toward South Tampa compared to the bumper to bumper parade heading home for a long weekend.
Ron and I were on our way to Plant High School's football game and hopes were high. Hoping for a victory and hoping our man, Drew might get in the game. We knew it was a long shot. We had watched this young man we love give it all he has (and then some) over the past 8 months. Hours and hours of practice, weight training and soaking up the teaching from the Coach. Thursday we received the news Drew would dress out.
In the midst of the sights and sounds - the 89 strong team (31 not dressed out), the band, the dancers and cheerleaders, and a packed stadium filled with students, parents, grandparents and community supporters it was an exhilarating atmosphere. And this gram, stretching her neck and straining to get a glimpse of "D". He'd been rewarded for his commitment, and perseverance (both emotional and physical) and stood alongside his team mates and I knew that his heart was pounding and his mind was looking toward the goal.
The Panthers didn't win Friday night..the score was 30-32 (most of their opponents points put on the Board in the 4) and D didn't get to play but I walked out of the stands and into the night inspired by my grandson's example of commitment, perseverance and training and my life in Christ took on a fresh meaning.
I wondered, can others see my commitment to Jesus? Have I given him all I am and all I have? Am I willing to follow His lead, listen to His voice, study His Word and then "wait" on Him? That is the key question isn't it?
In Isaiah 40: 28-31 I am encouraged anew by His Word -
"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is unscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly. Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary."
Oh Lord, as the psalmist prayed, "Incline my heart to your testimonies..turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, and revive me in your ways. Establish Your Word to your servant, as that which produces reverence for You. I shall run the way of Your commendments, for You will enlarge my Heart." (Psalm 119: 36 - 38; 32) I will gain new strength as I "wait for you"....that others might see Jesus.
It's my prayer.
Judy
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