Do you find yourself wondering where this year went? Weren’t we just getting ready for oyster supper and VBS? Scientists say time passes faster as we get older because we get caught up in routine, repetitive days that all seem to run together. We don’t experience as many new events, so our brains don’t have to work as hard writing memories. Every heartbeat story from this past year had an important lesson to teach, and each person had something unique to share. I considered all of them together and realized they can show us how to live with purpose and intention.
Lance Orta started the year by telling us about purpose. He explained how it feels to be a part of this community and how music brought him here. Samantha Boutte taught us to be the best we can because we represent more than just ourselves. Henry Joyner showed us the value of slowing down and examining the details. Carving wood is a process, just like becoming more like Jesus is a process. Robin Snoek reminded us to tend the fruits of the spirit so that others could realize and achieve their potential. Remember memorizing the fruits this past year? Shelby Boutte advised us to build our story by being kind, lending a hand, and being generous with our time. She reminds us to play.
Liza Nelson’s story teaches us to practice our faith by showing love and acceptance to others. It takes action to follow Jesus and do what he taught us. Billie Crockett told us to be the hands and feet of Jesus, you must stop thinking about yourself and focus on others. Glen Moon is our example of how to love the city, even after seeing it at its worst. We can rely on Jesus, surround ourselves with a faith community, and do a lot of praying.
Phyllis Mann is a role model for giving things our best effort. She said, don’t give up, keep trying, and take advantage of opportunities that may never come around again. Gene Soper suggested we think, question, and examine everything about life. You can’t watch from the sidelines, or you will miss out on what helping others is all about. You should strive to be better and never stop learning.
Science tells us we can slow time by making our days less repetitive, so let’s make that happen with our service to others. We can get outside of our comfort zone, do something unique and unfamiliar, and give our brains something different to process. Let’s do things that challenge us, perform random acts of kindness, and find creative ways to serve others. We can learn from each other and make the most of the time we have together. A new year is coming, full of opportunities to serve Jesus, build community, and live with intention. Time may still fly, but just think of all the great things we can do together, as a community, serving others for Jesus.
Story and headshot by Michelle Holland