Reflections (Writing Your Story)

Saul of Tarsus spent the first portion of his life writing a story of deep devotion to his Jewish faith and how that was lived out.  Then came a period of "crisis".  The news about the resurrection of Jesus was spreading quickly.  People were believing in this resurrected Jesus.  Saul acted according to his history.  He was becoming a chief persecutor of this new "sect". 
Then everything changed.  While on the way to carry out his orders, the risen Jesus appeared to him on the way to Damascus. (Acts 9)
From there he grew into the new name of Paul.  From there he wrote a new story of his life that endures to the present time.
What story are you writing?  What is the story of your life that you want to tell 10 years or 20 years, or more, from now? 
We are not underestimating the seriousness of the caronavirus, Covid-19.  We know that many are sick.  Many are dying.  Many are at risk.  But we also note that the vast majority of us will live through this crisis and have stories to tell.  What story will you write that will be your message going well into the future?
Some may have a story of hoarding toilet paper.  In light of this entire episode that will seem pretty small.  I don't think I want to tell kids and grandkids about the time during a world-wide crisis that I managed to keep plenty of toilet paper.
Some may make decisions today that will result in stories motivated by fear and anxiety. 
Some may make decisions today that will result in stories of yielding to temptation.
I could go on and one. 
Quinton Lucas, mayor of Kansas City, when speaking to the question of whether a business should be considered essential, offered the test.  If you have to ask, it is probably not essential.
If you are considering some action today, and have to ask if it is helpful, hurtful, useful, good or bad, you should probably stay away from the contemplated action.
Let me be very direct.  If you are thinking about being unfaithful to a loved one, that is a bad idea.  That is really not a story you want to tell to succeeding generations.  What story are you writing?
I am writing a story of spending more time with Cindy and finding joy in doing so!  I am actually trying to be helpful. (Not sure how successful that will be, but...)
I'll keep going.  If you are finding yourself yielding to frustration and anxiety, and wondering if life is worth living, stop, pray, call someone.  You may write a new story that will not be devastating to succeeding generations.
Give it some thought.  Write your story today.
Write a story that will seem heroic to succeeding generations.
Write a story of self-sacrifice without complaints, that will cause succeeding generations to take note.
Write a story of courage that will inspire succeeding generations.
Write a story of patience that will encourage succeeding generations.
Write a story of love that will endure through succeeding generations.
Paul wrote a new story.  You may write a new story as well.
This is the day the Lord has made.  We will rejoice and be glad in it.
steve