I can't change the world

When I was little, I wanted to be an astronaut for a few days. Then, my sister reminded me of my science grades and my terrible fear of heights. Next, I wanted to be a doctor. Well, then I saw blood and got queasy so that was out.

In my later teens, I knew that whatever I was going to do I wanted to serve Christ in that. I dreamed of faraway adventures in places only my older sister could pronounce. I dreamed of jungles and huts and later rickshaws and orphans. I had a vigorous God given drive. Then, my world crashed down. I lost my identity and passion. My health also prevented me from going down certain paths.

I always wanted soccer to be some part of my life. It is one of the few things I was “good” at and I love the game. I loved what it has taught me and the adventures it has brought me too. But, how do my passion and gifts align? Ha…good question. I’m still figuring that out.

I had an epiphany recently.

I’m not going to change the world.

That is not a negative or self degrading statement at all. I am fully aware that there are barriers that only God himself can remove to fulfill the dreams of my youth. So, what is in store for me then?

The question I really need to be asking myself is this;

Am I in love with the mission or mission giver?

Do I just want to do things and go places, because I want to? Do I just love the adventure…and where is my heart in all of this?

I was sitting on the bus with my soccer team the other day when I was hit over the head with the fact that I will not change the world.   

However, I will coach those who do. I will love and invest in those who do.

I coach future mothers, journalists, teachers, nurses, missionaries, fitness guru’s, doctors, youth group leaders, singers, and whatever else God calls them to do. They are beautiful people that will do and have done amazing things for Christ.

I get to care about them and invest in their lives with Christ like love. I get to share with them my love of community. I get to share my past struggles and teach them about God’s love, forgiveness, hope, and faithfulness. I get to encourage them and challenge them.

I have the honor and privilege of watching them become all that God intends.

That is a beautiful thing.  

Oh yeah, we also get to play soccer!!!

Soccer is not just about a ball. It’s about life too.

God is good ALL the time. ALL the time, God is good.

Be encouraged. God has you are where you are for a reason. He planned that. It was not by accident. His plans are incredibly perfect, we just have to be patient and open for his leading.

God is in control.

Jeremiah 29:11

          For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Isaiah 58: 11

The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame.  You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

Colossians 3:23

Whatever you do work at it with all your heart, as working for the lord and not for men.

Keep on keeping on.