Post 77
Defining Moments ... Defining Us
Recently, my eyes caught a headline detailing a well-known person's defining moment. Interestingly, for a couple of days before this, I had been engaged in an ongoing conversation about defining moments that occur in everybody's life journey. Indeed, the point was made: that most often, there are actually a number of times throughout life wherein certain key decisions are made - or not made (which, in reality, is a decision too).
As these discussions continued, memories popped up, pointing to so many key choices I have made over the years. Yes, some were more key than others … some were mini-key decisions - and several were of mega-proportion … and yet, they all moved me in certain directions to where I am now. It seems, there have been a good many of these defining moments - perhaps more than for others. However, the number in one's life is not a contest. Rather, I believe it is how we meet key crossroads and new opportunities.
Perhaps, it's because we are nearing the special, holy time of Christmas, my thoughts continue to review the Gospel of Luke's description of Mary's response to the angel's message. She - a virgin - would become with child, one who would be the Savior to a dying world. What would her reply be? This, for sure, was the defining moment for Mary.
What strikes me as I read Mary's answer is that she does not reply why; but instead, she asks how. This is true wisdom. Still, in our very own lives, do we see such wisdom? What initial questions come to us when a key decision is to be made? Do we ponder the why?? of the situation? Do we look only at our own abilities alone? Do we allow the what-ifs to reign? Do we knee-jerk in doubt, fear, or derisive laughter? Basically, do we define the challenge/opportunity/invitation/the calling just by the perimeters we can see at the moment? Do we hesitate or reject because we must see the whole picture ... the complete details ... the miles down the road?
Instead, do we soak the decision-to-be-made in prayer? The following are suggestions in shaping our how questions in prayer when facing those to-be defining-moments in our lives... those decisions for recovery ... and those commitments to continued recovery.
- If there are questions You want me to ask You about this potential decision, help me to be open to receiving these questions - and then, help me to ask You the questions and to ask about them
- With whom do You want me to have prayer support concerning this potential decision?
- In approaching this decision, how do You want me to go forward initially (first step)
- How then, do I take this first step/leap of faith?
- Remind me that You grant the courage, strength, and abilities; and You empower the vision for what is to be
- How do You define me?
Blessings,
Rev. Janet Jacobs
Founding Director
Gambling Recovery Ministries
For more information on problem gambling and recovery issues, visit www.grmumc.org, www.gamblersanonymous.org, and www.gam-anon.org
For resources on problem gambling, go to the National Council on Problem Gambling at www.ncpgambling.org
