To Change Me

Today is Sunday.

I am about to consume chili and cornbread for-the-win.

I just mowed the lawn wearing Ryan's hoodie, also for-the-win, along with using his precious noise canceling headphones. (Both of which are basically too large. How did two people so unlike become one? It's a mystery for sure.)

On these headphones I was listening to Christmas music. Best gift ever. Jesus. Love. Came to earth for you and me. No better time than 10/1 to start the joy.

It goes hand-in-hand with my project.

Today, I was given a project, and it would be the truth to say that I am completely overwhelmed.

During the sermon this morning at Grace Fellowship, our pastor said we should look in the seat back pockets in front of us, and grab the orange envelope. I checked, and then dutifully grabbed the one I found and held onto it while he continued. He went on to say that there might not be envelopes everywhere and that was okay.

I began to feel nervous.

Because this was clearly not an assignment for each parishioner.

"Oh,hey new friend, did you just arrive? I think this orange envelope is for you not me."

The orange envelope unwrapped...

Each one contains a $100 bill that the church budgeted for this church (4 campuses wide) project.

Each person must use/invest the $100 for an act of compassion outside the church walls.

You must tell the person/people you help why you are doing it. (ie tangibly showing God's love)

You must write a page about your thoughts - how you feel about being the one getting the envelope, who you helped, and the results.

You have until 10/19 to complete the entire task and turn in your feedback.

You may have to share your story publicly.


Um.

.....

So. Yeah.

The kids wanted to hold the $100 bill.

We talked about the extreme importance of being good stewards.

We talked about what options to pursue.

They laughed because I might have to give a presentation, thankful that it will not be them, giving a public report of how they spent God's money.

I am nervous.

But I am so excited by the opportunity. Compassion as action is what I always want my legacy to be. Love. Lived out. Freely given. When I take my leave of you, whether by relocation, or when I have passed from this life, it is my sincere desire that you would be able to say....she loved well. I could easily see that she lived her faith in a genuine way. That she was different. That she helped me to see even a glimpse of who Jesus is.

It's such a tall order. It really is.

But it is the heartbeat of heaven.

I'll keep you posted on what is sure to be a life changing, joyful experience. Giving is so much better than getting. I love love love giving gifts and treats of all kinds. To get to do so in the name of Jesus is an honor and privilege.

For now. Consider this...

Emmanuel, Prince of peace
Loves come down for you and me
Heaven's gift, the holy spark
To let the way inside our hearts

Bethlehem, through your small door
Came the hope we've waited for
The world was changed forevermore
When love was born