Later today we’re going over to family for a big Thanksgiving meal. I have a lot to be thankful for.
But I’ve got some things I’m disappointed about too. Can you relate to that? It’s tempting to make days like today all about Hallmark picture perfect images of happiness and contentment. But that’s not real life. Real life (this side of heaven) is about joy and grief both.
Today I’m celebrating fun, food and family. But also in the forefront of my mind are also some things that aren’t as happy. Goals I’ve set, but not met. That’s what is really sitting with my as I write today.
Don’t get me wrong. It’s not all bad. Having goals is a strong motivator for me. I find that they really drive me forward and force change and growth. Being discontent is, in some ways, healthy as it is a powerful drive for change and growth.
I’m looking to grow, even as I’m thankful for all the good gifts God has provided. I think it’s a healthy balance (even if the meal today won’t be). I want to be and become more than I am today.
There is a spiritual principle in this too. Just because Jesus paid the price and my sin is forgiven, it doesn’t give me the right to just kick back and collect on the fire insurance policy. I’m reminded of the words of the Apostle Paul: I press forward toward the mark of the goal of the high calling of God.
Pressing forward means leaving behind where I am now in favor of a better place. The calling of God – to be like Jesus, redeemed but also transformed into His likeness.
This is my invitation today. Be thankful (1 Thessalonians 5:18). But stay connected to a sense of holy discontent that drives your forward toward the goal (Philippians 3:14).
With all that said, here’s my moment of honesty. Last month I said my goal was to write the next short story in the Angel series. I’ve thought a lot about it, plotted endlessly, but haven’t written much. It’s a disappointment – life has just been so busy and demanding that I never made writing a priority. (yes, I had time, but didn’t prioritize it).
But I I did get the 2nd Angel story through the early readers – and they really liked it. So now I want to open up the advanced reader program for more feedback.
Life seems good for the Archangel Jarial. She has a great job in the heavenly realm and a few good friends. But she can’t pass the Archangel level 3 exam. It’s the only point of pain in her otherwise happy life. Will she be content with her level 2 rating, or will she take more extreme measures to get what she wants? Either path has extreme consequences.
I want to give a free copy of the story to a few readers who will agree to read it and email me with their thoughts. It’s not a long tale, and it definitely has some really interesting twists and turns that I think will entertain you and make you think.
If you’re willing to give it a read before Christmas and send me an email with your thoughts, I’d love to have you on the advanced team. Click here to sign up and I”ll send you the link.
Happy Thanksgiving, !
Dennis
