Difference Makers

We had a special service at church this morning, dedicated to school teachers and educators. It was a great time of giving and recognition and the pastor shared his message of the teachers who made a difference in his life. So often we think of the words or events that changed our truly, personally changed our lives, but that's not quite as powerful as the people with whom we have experienced a direct point of contact.

It's easy to reflect on what we have accomplished and point back to a time when information changed our lives or an event turned the course of things and a new shift changed the dynamics by which we lived, moved or perceived reality. Conversely, though, we can all point to a person or a relationship that has created a point of frustration and hindrance where we felt as though we were truly held back or disadvantaged by circumstances that were by and large, out of our control.

"Perhaps if someone else had done differently, I too would be doing differently."

I'm not absolving the individual into making excuses, but at the same time, legitimate negative factors do take their toll and have to be accounted for if we are to work towards solutions to overcome the obstacles that may lie before us, whether they be there on purpose or by accident.

That said, if you know your effectiveness has been hindered by people in the past, then is that not all the more reason to live today in such a way, that later, people will reflect upon your life and count you as one who moved them closer to greatness rather than held them back?

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed we would live with intention and purpose; to live great lives and build up those around us. May we recognize the greatness within those around us and call them out to live better than they are. Pray that we would live with a spirit of love and communicate with words of truth. May we people who would seek opportunitiy to make a difference in the lives of those around us, as Christ has work in our lives to make a difference for eternity.

For we were created with purpose,
For a hope and future
That we might glorify God
And point others to Him.
For the sake of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC