Growing Young

This past week, Betty White - America's Sweetheart - turned 90 years young. For her - 90 is the new 60! As I watched her televised birthday bash with dozens of clips from all her shows of years past, I was struck with how her sense of humor and joy for life was a consistent thread throughout the years. I don't know if Betty has faith - or what she believes follows this life. I truly hope she knows Jesus as I'd love to get to know her in Heaven one day. Maybe I should write her and see if she's secured her eternal reservation!

What really struck me is that there are far too many Christians that don't seem to live with the kind of joy and zest for life that Betty has. What's wrong with that picture? I believe this is due in part to the fact that we fail to focus on the truth that truly sets us free and gives us unquenchable hope and joy despite our circumstances. I've been re-reading a spectacular book by Bob George called: CLASSIC CHRISTIANITY. It is one worth reading every couple years. In fact, we are using it as one of four anchor books for our leadership mentoring groups at my church. It is a profound reminder that Jesus not only died to offer us forgiveness of our sins and a place in Heaven after this life, but He also ROSE from the dead to give us new life NOW! If we are not exuding the kind of joy we see oozing from the likes of Betty White - there is something wrong!

As I continue my countdown to 60 (155 days), I'm praying that God will help me to celebrate the gift of each and every day He chooses to give me on this earth to reflect the joy and hope that is within me - found only in Jesus Christ!

Now, go out and share a smile, find the humor in things and celebrate today with someone who needs hope!