OTHERS

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him,” James 1:12 (ESV). Over a lifetime I’ve received a few awards, earned a few titles and have been blessed with great opportunities. Most of them now live stacked in drawers and closets or only have meaning as a part of some story that comes up from time to time. In the end they have little enduring value. One of my spiritual fathers, Costa Deir, would say: “A great life can be summed up in one word: ‘others’”. This leads to the question of life that matter, “have I been a blessing to others.” Father, the only prize I now seek is to remain steadfast by helping, strengthening and lifting others. May my hands not be empty as I join the gathering before Your thrown in heaven and we joyfully cast our crowns at your feet.