From Gary... Choosing the winner

Fifth Place

Fourth Place

Third Place

Runner Up

The Winner

Yesterday, Lizzie and I wanted to do something different with the day and after some discussion, decided to look at all the houses (all 125 of them) in our retirement community.  We went out about noontime, so it was only about 90, but by the time we finished it had reached the higher 90's.  We each took pictures of our favorites and after a half-hour or so, finally compromised on the order you see above.  Uniqueness of style, clever arrangement of landscaping and overall beauty were the criteria.  Also, the quality of the photos was part of the process, as neither of us is a professional- not every picture was perfect.  When it came time to do the blog, the Scripture to use was obvious...

Hebrews, Chapter 12

 1 Therefore let us also, seeing we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,  2 looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  3 For consider him who has endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, that you don’t grow weary, fainting in your souls.  4 You have not yet resisted to blood, striving against sin;  5 and you have forgotten the exhortation which reasons with you as with children, 

“My son, don’t take lightly the chastening of the Lord,

nor faint when you are reproved by him;

  6 For whom the Lord loves, he chastens,

and scourges every son whom he receives.”

It occurred to me that the process of grading was a lot like religious life, as there are many things influencing you to go in various directions.  But, once you determine your source of authority (vs. 2 "looking to Jesus..") things become clear.  What he has done (that is, offering a sacrifice for our wrongdoings [sin]) makes him the obvious winner.  Needless to say, if you choose the winner- you WIN!!!  Once you have done this- keeping choosing Jesus; no matter what happens!!!!  "Keep choosing Jesus" sounds like a good summary for the whole book of Hebrews!!!!  I wonder.... could you say that about YOUR LIFE????