On February 24th, I celebrate 63 years as a Christian.

In the early days there was a gospel chorus we sang at my church in Palm Springs, California:

“My desire to be like Jesus

My desire to be like Him

His spirit fill me

His love Or’whelm me

In word and deed

To be like Him”

It’s still my desire after 63 years.

I’m reminded of the  lady who said:

“I’m not what I wanna be I’m not what I’m gonna be But at least I’m not what I was.”

I resonate with that. I’ve come a long way, but have a long way to go.

I love Philippians 3:12 in the Phillips translation:

“Yet, my brothers, I do not consider myself to have “arrived,” spiritually, nor do I consider myself already perfect. But I keep going on, grasping ever more firmly that purpose for which Christ Jesus grasped me.”

That’s what I want to do, by His grace, keep going on!

I’m still a life-longer learner; learning more about myself and about Him. 

Here’s something I’m learning about myself:

I’m perfectionistic,  idealistic and, at times, unrealistic in what I want to see happen. I have a picture in my mind and heart as to how I want things to turn out and pursue that with passion, energy and conviction; but, unfortunately, at times also with rigidity and inflexibility. 

When the things I envision are not happening (whatever it may be) I can then become impatient, frustrated, angry, controlling and demanding. I see this process (pattern)  played out over and over again in my life.  From very little things to very big things. I confess and own it!

By His grace, the key for me is to be willing to kiss my idea goodbye and not hang on too tightly (Matthew 19:22 and Luke 14:33 in The Message).

I need (want) to readjust my expectations to be more realistic which, in turn, will help me be flexible, patient and sensitive to where others are in relation to my plan or idea. 

As long as I’m alive, He’s not through with me!