January 2010
 

We have turned a metaphorical corner by completing the first decade of the 21st century.  This calls for a bit of reflection.

We spend much time praising and focusing on the extraordinary in society (the heroic deed, the amazing sport achievement, the tragic event etc).  However, most of us will only read or watch TV about these things.  We usually reside in a much less dramatic world. Ordinary is where we live.

 I am reminded of an old movie about a young man who wants to become someone powerful and well known in the larger society. He interacts with an older established national leader.  The elderly man advises the young man that he should “become a teacher.” The young man responds: “but who will know of me if all I do is teach?”  The response from the senior statesman was profound: “you will know, your students will know, your family will know and God will know – that’s not a bad audience.”

 In effect, he was saying that a job and a life well spent in the service of others is its own reward.

As we approach this year – let us withstand the world’s obsession with the trends and fashions, the icons and false idols that can consume us. The world’s values are transient and shallow.  They emit false standards of success or failure.  Our assignment is much more significant and real.  Our legacy will not be found in yesterday’s yellowing newspaper or old TV reels, but rather in the audience that knows us best and loves us most: those we work with, our families, close friends and God.

 The scriptures say that God cares for us as we journey through life.
"God has lost track of me.   He doesn't care what happens to me"?
Don't you know anything? Haven't you been listening?
God doesn't come and go. God lasts.  He's Creator of all you can see or imagine.
He doesn't get tired out, doesn't pause to catch his breath.

And he knows everything, inside and out.
He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts.
For even young people tire…But those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind.
(Isaiah 40:28-31 The Message Translation)

 
So as we start our new year and its predictable resolutions – let us remember our most precious companions in life are also our most important audience.  Any other measure pales by comparison.

 

Blessings,


Tom                                                                                                                                

Volume 19 Issue 1

Upcoming Events:

City in Focus Monthly Breakfast:  The next breakfast is on March 5th. The speaker is TBD.
Watch Tom Cooper’s interview with Fanny Kiefer on Studio 4
Listen to Judy Graves and Tom Cooper speak at the December 2009 Monthly Breakfast.
For more information please call 604-687-7292 or visit www.cityinfocus.ca