One Year Closer to 30

Yesterday I turned 29. I realize that 29 is not old, but I can clearly remember a time in my life when I thought people in their 30's were old. So here I am, 0ne year closer to 30 and I really don't feel that old. In fact I feel like I'm just now finally starting to find myself.

I listened to a podcast this past year by Rob Bell in which a number stuck out in my head. Bell mentioned in one of his messages that he was 28 when he started Mars Hill. As a 28 year old at the time, I thought to myself, "What would happen if I started a church right now? How would it look? Where would it begin?" Feelings of inadequacy crept in and I found myself wondering if I'd ever be at a place where I would have enough knowledge, leadership skills, and courage to begin such a large endeavor.

I've since realized that although I may not be called to start a church, I have been given much and of me much is required. I hope to recognize where it is God is calling me. There's always that worry that we miss what our purpose is and then its too late. I don't want to get to that point. I want to proactively search for my God given purpose so that I can make a difference in this world.

I was always taught in sports that each day of practice should help me become better than I was before I took step on the field. I think the same can be said of each year we add to our lives. May my 29th year on earth prove to be filled more with love for God and others than any other year of my life. May I be a better husband, dad, son, brother, coworker, youth minister, friend, leader, and man than I was when I was 28.