Legacy and Vision
Legacy and vision are words representing what has happened and what is to come. On Saturday, July 19th we celebrated both. We gathered with friends of Canyon Ministries in Phoenix, AZ to recall the work of God through Canyon Ministries since its first river trip in 1997 and consider the work that is yet to come. The evening precipitated story after story of challenged and changed lives because of their involvement in Canyon Ministries.
One of those stories was about a Minnesota woman named, Mary. As a Sunday school teacher, Mary understood the influence she has on her young (middle elementary) students. She also understood the importance of giving her students real answers from Genesis and understanding God’s account of creation and the flood. Mary determined in her heart that her own photos and investigation in the Grand Canyon would have greater impact than simply reading from a book and showing a video. Mary joined a 9-day river trip to accomplish the passion of her heart. In so doing, she faced numerous fears: water, heights, germs, snakes, scorpions, and the general camping environment. Mary faced her greatest fears because she loved her Sunday school kids so much. Makes me think about Jesus who, “for the joy set before Him endured the cross”.
Legacy and vision; who we were and who we are becoming. When we take the time to look back, we are blessed with the eyes required to see the mighty work of God. From that perspective, we more readily recognize the love God has lavished on us. We then turn our attention toward the future with renewed zeal for we know that the same God that walked with us in years past is the One prepared to walk with us into tomorrow. Jesus is the Alpha and Omega; the beginning and the end. He is before all things and in Him all things hold together.
Take time today to recall the work of God in your life and consider the wonder and possibility of the days ahead!
PRAISEALLUJIAH!
Jon
