Just Like That

Life can change in an instant.....Just Like That! Whether from a decision we made, a circumstance beyond our control, or a miraculous event we are part of, the bigger question will be what happens next? How do we handle life on life's terms when it is out of our control for any of these reasons or more.

The joy of picking up a nine month recovery chip can be followed by an overnight overdose. It is cunning and baffling as they say, enough to make us ask why, if we could understand.  Why do some make it and some don't? We hear the remarkable stories of those with years of sobriety that seem like incredible feats and we say I want to be just like that but we don't want to pay the price they paid to get just like that.

If we are holding on to addictions, grief, anger and resentments, we have refused to find a solution for healing. That will for sure, take us out of commission. And yet, we have numerous 12 Step Program and Biblical examples of how it's done and it all begins with surrender. The way they got like that was to become like that through a process of accepting a relationship with the God who could heal those things through forgiveness of ourselves and others.

One day long ago Jesus spoke to a woman at a well who was not like him. She was married five times and in an adulterous relationship and of another nationality that Jews did not speak with. As they spoke he said he could give her "living water" that would prevent her from seeking her addiction and bring her peace. And, just like that after her encounter with him, she put into practice the gift she received.

Because of that, she helped change the lives of generations as she ran back into her village, told her story, and many came to believe in the right man that she had met. That's what we need to do more of and that's what we did this afternoon as we stand ready to baptize one who became a believer. All it takes is one right decision, in  one shining moment and our lives shift from neutral into drive.

And just like that we are on the highway to heaven and on the pathway to success. Ask that Samaritan woman which man made her feel loved. Her reaction tells it all. Let's remember to always share this Good News, you never know what impact your story may have.

And just like that you are jumping for joy that you made a difference for Him!