The Flip-Side

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 39: Today, I am grateful for the flip-side.

Many years ago we did a program with the K-6th on Wednesday nights that I have never forgotten. I was not keen on the idea of a video each week, because we typically had used short dramas to teach the lesson, and the kids loved it.

I watched a video or two and was convinced. We spent the entire year teaching about how Jesus's upside down thinking. He flipped how people thought and lived. The lessons encouraged all of us to look beyond ourselves to see the needs around us.

The teachings of Jesus were about loving others, not self-improvement. Of course, living out his instructions quite often flips our way of thinking.

My friend, Sarah, just returned from a trip to Zimbabwe, Africa. I have not had a chance to see all of the pictures and hear the stories, but I know it was impactful beyond measure. She helped at an orphanage during their visit. They had a chance to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Sarah is a nurse and she has a huge heart. I know it was hard for her to see the struggles and suffering that are a normal part of daily life in a place where they struggle to meet basic needs. I know she and Pastor Andrew made an impact in their time there.

“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike." -Matthew 5:43-45

It was Superbowl Sunday (#60). A time to come together with family and friends to enjoy football and food. Those who choose opposing jerseys are not really our enemies. They all enjoy football and the festivities that are a part of the evening. The winter Olympics are in progress, too. There was much to root for. Both had stories of players, coaches, and the history of the games. In both events, there are stories of athletes changing teams or changing countries in the case of the Olympics.

It is touching to hear the athlete's stories. Resilience and hard work are a common thread. A few make it to the podium. On the flip-side are those who work just as hard, who do not win. How they act when they are discouraged or defeated speaks volumes about their character and their purpose. Sometimes the greatest lessons come from the flip-side.

Today, I am grateful for the flip-side.