How to Do-Good

Quick How-To Guide: Start the day with a little silence, scripture (via Forward Day by Day, if you choose) and prayer. Then open your eyes and make it a practice to be hyper-aware of who and what's going on around you. Deploy that deed with confidence when God gives you his signature gentle nudge. This may feel awkward and unnatural. #NoWorries #GoWithIt #DeedWellDone #BlessingsEnsueJustWait

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Day 333

Scripture: Ps 146; Genesis 27:30-45; Romans 12:9-21; John 8:21-32


Scripture standout: Romans 12: "9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.[a] Do not be conceited.
 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,”[b] says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
   “If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
   if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”[c]
 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."


His Deed/The Day: This was a sucky day. Last week, I applied for a job for the first time in a long time. I only did it because I felt like my strengths matched the job requirements in every way. The benefits were enticing, and would help curb the costs of a Bolles education for our kids. Friends who knew the hire-er called on my behalf. The interview went beautifully — I received flattering feedback. I spent the past week feeling like I was "in." Then the curt email — he had chosen another candidate. A former Times-Union writer/editor. Soooo sorry.

Ughhh! I was so confused and angry at first! Even though I was not sure I wanted to put myself into an 8-5 job at this point in my life, I wanted to choose! If I was going to put myself out there, I wanted positive results! And this guy — the chosen candidate — geesh! I know him! And let me tell you something, he is not all that! (I screamed to myself) Typical, over-degreed, one-tracked, daily paper lifer who is a lot more socially awkward than I and surely can't look cute in a twin set and pearls. (I cried) But at the same time, I was also nervous about leaving the flexible, secure cocoon that I've made for myself as editor of two newspapers. I knew how much I'd miss working from my house and answering to no one but myself.

I knew there was only one thing I could do. Be thankful. I spent a tearful afternoon thanking God for everything he has given me — especially through the job I have now. At the end of the day, I am fortunate to have a job, much less one I love. The Chosen was out of work for nine months. He needed it — to support his family. And maybe I had no business needing a job that would take me further away from mine.

So, today's deed was sending some congratulatory cookies to a cousin in Texas who just had a rockin' movie premiere yesterday. She's helped launch a very successful film. I am proud of her, and made sure she knew it.

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