Sacrifice

Last night I watched Mel Gibsons' The Patriot. Contrary to popular opinion, this movie had nothing to do with Tom Brady or New England's attempt of having a perfect season. Who knew?

I must say that this movie had a profound impact upon me. As I reflected upon all that the main character gave up in order for the colonies to become an independent nation, I continued to reflect upon the concept of sacrifice. Mel Gibson's character sacrificed his life for the liberty of others. He lost 2 sons, his farm and his home. He would never see or experience the liberty from oppression that he gave his blood for.

What would I be willing to sacrifice one of my family members for? What would be important enough for me to quit my job and possibly forfeit all monetary gain? What would I lay my life down for?

It is easy to talk about sacrifice in the cush comforts of our homes sitting in front of a computer screen drinking a cup of coffee. What about when real opportunities come our way where we have to decide? What about when the call to the mission field beckens at my door? I wish I knew that I had the strength and moral character to make the right decision in faith.

Maybe one day, people around the world will be able to experience freedom that comes from Jesus Christ because I was willing to model the sacrifice my savior paid...or maybe I will just hide inside the comforts of my shell.

Rebel with a Cause...

One of my favorite traditions each year is to watch the Charlie Brown Christmas special on CBS. Unfortunately, I missed it this year due to lack of attention on my part...or from watching too much of the Nature Channel. However, I did some research on this classic and found out that it almost didn't take place. The two producers of the show didn't think it would fly.

"We told Schulz, 'Look, you can't read from the Bible on network television,' " Mendelson says. "When we finished the show and watched it, Melendez and I looked at each other and I said, 'We've ruined Charlie Brown.' " http://www.usatoday.com/life/television/news/2005-12-05-charlie-brown-christmas_x.htm

The irony for me is that Linus' words about the true meaning of Christmas is what makes the show so incredible. Even though this nugget of truth comes from an eight year old...and a cartoon at that, it's still truth. People recognize it, they know it to be true...but unfortunately too many people reject this truth for the lies this world has to offer.

As you celebrate this Christmas, remember to keep Jesus at the center of your celebrations...no matter how controversial it is.

Candy Coated

Today I learned that just because there is a bunch of candy available to eat, maybe you shouldn't.

I don't know if you can be poisoned from eating too much chocolate, but I may be walking that line a littel too closely. I glanced at myself in the mirror on the way to the bathroom and I noticed a faint resemblance to a "M" starting to form on the back of my shell.

Then the proverbial question began to form, if my shell does turn into milk chocolate yummy goodness, will I have the will power not to eat it? On the upside, I would have a wonderful treat of yummy goodness. On the downside, I will be perpetually naked.

Hmmm.... It's not as easy as you might think. Stupid milk chocolate yummy goodness...