Make the most of every opportunity

So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. ¹⁶ Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.

Ephesians 5:15-16

This not just a "power" verse for those golden moments. Every opportunity means, every opportunity; good, bad and horrible. There is something to be made from even the worst situations.

Shadows and light

Lately, there are more shadows than light in my days. As a matter of fact sometimes, it just feels like I move from shadow to shadow. That is why I am especially thankful for a job that requires me to spend time with middle/high school and college kids. Yesterday they were the light in my day. Once you get beyond the brooding and the angst, and the kids allow themselves to be real, they are funny, energetic, awkward, insightful, caring, and helpful. It is a gift that they allow me into their lives.

Somethings I am mulling over

From Crossfit Faith.com:

Commit to a problem-solving 2011. Instead of being conquered by worry and regret, you will rely upon your faith to solve any problem that comes your way. Spend time in prayer to focus upon your commitment.

“God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’ So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’ Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:5-8)

From Talk to me Johnnie:

Cultivate mental and physical toughness by hammering ourselves on the anvil of hard training and venturing the road less traveled. By traversing difficult terrain we find ourselves in that break to create mindset. Instead of making a promise and wishing to better ourselves, turn in the opposite direction.

And most prominently, in the front of my mind, is this from an email from my friend Caitlin who just returned from the Iris Ministries Harvest School in Mozambique with Heidi and Rolland Baker:

But honestly, the biggest miracle I saw during school was LOVE. Heidi Baker, the founder of the school, always told us students, “Love looks like something.” She challenged us to stop for at least one person everyday and show him or her love. She told us not to focus on changing the world but instead to do one simple act of love at a time.