Make Your Life A Mission
“Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered...” (Psalm 39:4 NLT)
Just a few days ago, one of history's greatest musical icons departed from this life leaving the entire world in utter shock. Michael Joseph Jackson, is arguably the greatest of all time. He earned the title 'The King of Pop' because of his dazzling performances, creativity, and record-breaking hits. Not only that, but because of his giving spirit, he was able to help millions around the world. Despite what allegations this dynamic legend constantly faced, whether true or false, none can deny the impact and influence he had on people from all walks of life and different ethnic groups.
For a person who has influenced so many people, there's something to be said about that. It would have been wonderful to see a born-again Michael Jackson with an even greater influence to draw others to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. And who knows what was taking place in his spirit those final moments into eternity. Regardless, I truly believe that God can still use his life as an example to show us the mass potential we possess to impact our world. A study was done several years ago in which fifty people over the age of ninety-five were asked one question: "If you could live your life over again, what would you do differently?" The question was open-ended and produced answers that varied. However, the most common point that emerged from the study was this, "If I had to do it over again, I would do more things that would live on after I am dead." What a powerful statement.
Our souls are not hungry for fame, wealth, prestige, or control. What our souls hunger for, more than anything, is meaning. This is what makes us live our lives different from others so that we can leave our mark in this world when it's our time to depart. Here's something I believe will challenge you to live life to the fullest. Never assume that you will live a long time. The psalmist said, "Lord, make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am." The greatest tragedy of life is not that it ends so soon, but many people wait so long to begin it. You don't have to wait another day to live your life. Start Living today! Make your life a mission, not an intermission. Win souls to the kingdom. Encourage someone who can't seem to get up. Let someone know that you truly care. Do something that will inspire someone to live again, dream again, love again. "Heal the world. Make it a better place for you and for me and the entire human race." That's what makes life worth living. If you're not giving, you're not living.
If you think you've accomplished everything there is to accomplish, you're sadly mistaken. If you believe all hope is gone, then I have good news for you. Here is a test to determine if your mission on earth is complete: If you're alive, it isn't!
- Pastor John Barton