Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Reflecting


I was paid a most high compliment by my running friend, Marion, over at her blog, Shut it and Run, in her Monday, January 14th post. She was saying what a great job I had done in the 10 mile race I had run the day before which was cool and everything, but the comment I appreciated the most was at the end of her post when she said, "Pop over to his blog. He's really a great inspiration for anyone, runner or not. Makes ya wanna be a better person all around, not just on the running trail:)" It brought tears to my eyes. You see, my life goal is to become more Christ-like everyday and to be a servant and encourager to others as He is to us... there is no greater goal or model for me to conform to. I want to reflect His character to those around me and Mar's comment provided me with some affirmation that I am on the right path so, thanks SO much Mar! I read this from 1 Corinthians 10:23&24 this morning where the apostle Paul says, "'Everything is permissible' - but not everything is beneficial. 'Everything is permissible' - but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others." It is fallen human nature to be selfish and self-serving. It is my prayer this morning that God continues to change the nature of who I am to speak and to act for the good of others and reflect His character and not my own. Amen.

2 comments:

Mar said...

Between your supportive and inspirational (and yes, sometimes side splitting!) posts on RA, comments on my blog and now, posts on your own blog, you ARE a life changing person, Rick. I think what I enjoy most about your style is your positive outlook. Too many people are pessimistic these days and feed off of other pessimistic people. I am so glad I am able to benefit from your bright outlook and cheery personality.

Also, you remind me how much God has blessed me and my family. I need to start paying far more attention to that instead of taking my blessings for granted.

So, thank you, Rick. Can't wait to see what else you teach me:)

Rick said...

You're welcome, Mar! You've had a VERY inspirational impact on my life as well. But, I should point out that I am simply a vessel. I can teach you nothing of my own self. Heck, I try to get it/life "right" myself every day and fail miserably, often. I don't want to get "preachy" but, it is what God has done IN me that allows Him to speak through me. So, the kudos and glory go to God (Glory to God (GTG), as my friend Stu would say), not me. I appreciate your VERY kind words though, Mar... truly. And, you're right, from what I have come to see of you, your great husband, Todd, and your awesome and beautiful children, and lovely home and vehicles and place you live... God HAS richly blessed you.

Sorry if that sounded "preachy", but it was from my heart.