Mid morning Reflection

This morning, just before 10, I sat outside the replica tomb at the church where my wife works. A friend had told me to listen to a song about Good News, and as I sat there, the words sank deep. Around me, life carried on—someone was spraying weeds, an ambulance drove past—and those small scenes reminded me how fragile and valuable life is.

The tomb in front of me is only a replica, but it represents the best news of all: the tomb is empty. Death, fear, scarcity, and doubt have been defeated. That reminder centered me again on where my true value comes from—my identity in Christ Jesus.

I thought about performance—the three kinds my friend Jim talks about: physical, mental, and spiritual. Physical performance means taking care of the body with rest and sleep. Mental performance is about aligning the mind, finding flow, and breaking through invisible ceilings that limit us. But spiritual performance goes even deeper. It’s the roots beneath the tree—the assurance that what I stand on is solid.

Even the man with the highest IQ ever recorded once said his beliefs were rooted in Christ. That story shows me that true wisdom isn’t just about intellect—it’s about faith.

As I sat there, I raised my own flag of gratitude. Gratitude is something Dr. J Weems once spoke about often, and he carried it with a joy that was contagious. Gratitude shifts the atmosphere. It keeps the current of joy flowing even when life is heavy.

So today I chose to be grateful. To treat people kindly, even if they oppose me. To live honestly, sincerely, and unashamed as a follower of Christ. To put my best foot forward—even if I step in the wrong spot—and trust that God will guide me as I keep knocking, asking, and seeking.

There may be plenty of blues out there, but the Good News changes everything. Gratitude keeps me walking. Faith keeps me grounded. And love keeps me centered between light and truth.

As my daughter Bella likes to remind me: Be a blessing. When you are, you not only heal others—you heal yourself. And in doing so, you become an inspiration.

This morning, I’m choosing to step forward with joy, gratitude, and faith in the One who already defeated the tomb.