"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?"    {Mark 8:36}


I took this picture one day out on a walk with my husband. It spoke to me of our American heritage,  and the flag is part of it, but the house reminds me of a common American style. I love the flag pole, because when I was a child, my Father had a flagpole put into our backyard. He was a World War Two Veteran, and had a great love for our country. He also taught History, and so the two collided to make a loyal citizen. I am a happy recipient of this heritage.

We all realize that this country is not perfect, as no country ever can be, because it is filled with imperfect people. Just because we have made mistakes doesn't mean that we should forgo every other part that has been good. When a christian makes a mistake, we need to get up, brush off our knees, and walk on. Don't look back, but move ahead to what God has for you. The more time we spend wallowing in our mistake, the less time we have to press in to what God has for us. The same is true for our nation.

Divisiveness, hatred, and separation have broken us more than ever, and only Jesus, and His tender touch can lift us from this grievous place. Those of us who have been here a while know what we had in the past, in way of a more controlled society. "Move Lord, because without you we have nothing!" Certainly this is God's desire to mend and make whole. Our young people can be taught to loving disagree with someone who has a contrary opinion.

Who will pay the cost? Who will lay down their life for their friends? Jesus, yes, and He paid the price for all of us. What about us? Will we be transparent before the lost, and live a life that pleases God? This seems to be harder than ever to do, but it is worth it. Pleasing God is the only thing that is worth anything in my opinion, and I know I'm being very opinionated today. I feel it needs to be said. Any life that is worth living is one that is gaining victories for the kingdom. I am saying this for me more than anyone, and I feel I need to pray. Will you pray with me?

Father God, we are a needy people, and our need for you is evident. I know that anyone who asks in faith will have what they ask for, when we ask according to your will. I believe it is your will to make us more like you. Help us to listen to your written word, and allow it to change us, however you want. In Jesus name, Amen.