The 2nd Mile

Matthew 5:41--If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.

I have always wanted a "2nd mile" lifestyle, I just didn't know what to call it. A 2nd mile lifestyle--the kind of life that although not perfect, yearns for, aches for, and seeks the heart of the living God. Going the 2nd mile in our lives, our families, our communities. My church (http://www.bammel.org/) has recently introduced this series--titled the "2nd Mile Lifestyle", and the messages have convicted me to stretch myself and my faith to achieve it. What is it about this life that makes it so complicated? So many things...why do I allow those things to get in the way of my faithfulness? Perhaps because I'm afraid of the sacrifice faithfulness involves. So many things I have...gifts, love, passion...I need to give it away! I need to put them to good use! I feel limited at times. How am I limited? By myself! By the faith I have in my own abilities, not by God or His abilities! He can bless me with more and more knowledge; more and more passion for what I do; yet still I hold back, even when the things He could do are endless. If only I would hear Him... and REALLY LISTEN to HIM...I would be moved. I want to be moved! Lord, move me. I know it is up to me. I know it is my decision to hear You. I will make the decision to hear You.

Faith like a child. Lord, to have the faith I had as a child...I remember it so well. No wonders, no doubt. There is God. His son, Jesus. Jesus died so I could be saved. Jesus listens and God has angels that watch over me. I used to envision them before I went to bed in the corner of the ceiling, watching me. Lord, I want that faith again.

My Sweet Spot. The Gift that God has given me--on purpose. For a purpose. I have one. Photography? People? Church? Relationships? I love them all and many other things. Lord, help me find my Sweet Spot.

The 2nd mile lifestyle...I want it. Following Jesus Christ in my daily life. Do people look at me and see Jesus Christ? Not enough right now, honestly. I need to realize I will not find fullfillment on the 1st mile. What if I went past the 1st mile in my faithfulness, my loyalty, my love, my joy, my service, and went a 2nd mile--will people see Jesus then? I am called to go there. I've got to go there. There is where I will find a fulfilled life; Jesus promises it! Why do I do photography? Why do I call it Capturing Creations? Because I love God. I love His Creations, and I want to show the world His wonders. The 2nd mile in my photography is this--I promise, Lord, I will praise You with all my heart, and do my very best to tell of all Your wonders. To any customer, new or old, a free 11x14 print with any scripture you'd like printed on it...to display the word of God and His creation on your walls.

I love you, Lord. Thank you for my gifts. I will honor You with them, always.