learning DAILY



We are home from our vacation; we enjoyed our time away.  But it is good to be home.  I will share some thoughts on our time tomorrow.

Today, I would like to share some thoughts on the tragedy that occurred yesterday.  I spent some time watching and reading the many tributes to Kobe Bryant.  He was one of those basketball players I had a love/hate relationship with when watching him play.  I did not like him much when he played so well against the team I was rooting for.  But I respected his abilities to play the game of basketball so well.  It was said by many yesterday and many others will say it today and, in the days ahead, his competitiveness and love for the game stood out; he prepared constantly to maintain his ability to perform at the highest level.

I have seen the deaths of many athletes in many sports that I grew up watching and it always makes me rather sad.  I have had the opportunity to shake several of their hands over the course of my life.  I knew very little about their personal life – just what was reported in the news.  This sort of tragedy, where a life is taken so unexpectedly, makes me reflect on what is really important in life.  I have been impressed with the reporting of Kobe’s relationship with his family, his involvement in the life of his daughter.  I hope that I am remembered for the involvement in the lives of my family. 

It also reminds me of the need to be ready for eternity.  I have often used the phrase “we are not promised tomorrow” and it certainly is true.  Death can occur at any moment for each of us.  I have been reminded that each of us needs to live a life that strives to be the best we can possibly be each day; to love life regardless of what comes our way; and to prepare each day to live the life God created us to live.  We are to die daily to ourselves, pick up our cross and live for Jesus Christ (Mark 8:34).  Then, when we “stand” before the Lord, we will hear Him say, “Well done good and faithful servant”!



If you would like to get this blog sent to you automatically when new posts are posted please leave your email address with “Follow by email.” Don’t forget to check Follow as well.