Poured Out

Lately I have been overwhelmed with pride for so many of my friends who are pouring themselves out for other people. Many people around me regularly give of themselves to help others. It may be their own children, other people's children, clients, family or coworkers. It's being a teacher, good neighbor, counselor, MOPS coordinator, youth group leader, children's ministry worker, RA supervisor, Young Life director, missions trip leader... Whatever it is, they balance taking care of others with taking care of themselves. The Holy Spirit is filling them and they in turn are filling others.

Yesterday was my half birthday, which is usually a cause for mini-celebration in my life. However, the last few years of aging has been a little more nerve wracking. I'm almost 36! Yikes! Where have the years gone? But as I look around me I'm finding at least one blessing of having a few years behind me. I am able to experience and recognize God's discipline, redemption and faithfulness. I get to see him working in other people's lives. I especially get a little teary when I see former students pouring out to others. God has a plan and he lets us be a part of it. How amazing!

So to all my friends - thank you for pouring your self out. Thanks for giving and giving (no Ray Boltz song needed). Thanks for being a blessing to me. I am proud of you! Keep up the good work!

"A man reaps what he sows...Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..." - parts of Galatians 6:7-10