"In the beginning....". For most of us these words are loaded with meaning.  They are loaded,  because we think we know what comes next.  We've developed a narrative around these words that is packed with explanations, theories, thoughts, and beliefs.
            Think back to a time of "beginning" in your life.  Maybe it was starting at a new school or starting a new job.  Perhaps it was getting married or having your first child.  You may think of beginning life in a new city or becoming part of a new church community.  We go through many beginnings.  There is an excitement and freshness to new things.  There is also some wonder and uncertainty.  God seems to love newness.  In Scripture, the words "In the beginning..." are followed by "God created."  The first thing we learn about the nature of God is that he is "creative." 
            If you are up on the current lingo, this is now a whole class of people in the work place and in our culture.  The "creatives" are shifting and changing how companies approach business and how they are connecting with people.  The funny thing is, we were designed by God from the beginning to be creatives.  Genesis tells us that "God created mankind in his own image..." (1:27).  This simply means we were created as an earthly reflection of the character of God.  We often get so hung up on what God created, and when, and how, that we forget the whole purpose as to why.  I often wear a shirt that has the phrase, "Live to create, not simply to consume."  We are being consumed by consumption.  I think we are asking the wrong questions.  The real question to ask is, "how are we bearing the image of God in our world?"  What are we creating?  What are we making new?  What are we breathing life into?
            May we be known as true image-bearers. May we be the bringers of new life into a broken and hurting world, realizing that our brokenness is only made new by the one who brings us life.  May we remember the words in Lamentations 3:22-34 that say:
                        Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
                        for his compassions never fail.
                        They are new every morning;
                        great is your faithfulness.
                        I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
                        therefore I will wait for him."

Chris White

I had the recent pleasure of listening to a talk given by Tim Siegel at my daughter's FCA meeting.  A little over a year ago, Tim's son Luke (a then 4th grader, now 5th) was in a terrible golf cart accident that caused severe brain injury.  Many of you might recall hearing about the Siegel's story and have followed it over the past year.  My wife, Kim, was Luke's music teacher at Lubbock-Cooper. The Siegel family has been a part of the Lubbock community for many years, so many of you are connected in some way.  Tim spoke to the group, mostly middle school students, about the tragedy of his son's accident, the challenge to his faith, the pain, and ultimately his renewed passion and hope.  Many have been inspired by Luke's story, his resiliency, and his progress beyond expectation. 
            Tim's message and the Siegel's journey has caused me to think about opportunity.  I think of my own children, and the short time I have with them.  I have the choice to be present and seize the opportunity for each little moment with them.  I'm reminded that we often take for granted the things that we have, and the people that surround us.  Typically we associate the word opportunity with action, success, business, or even ministry.  I believe that our world today needs more people that seize the opportunities for authentic relationships.  We need more opportunities for open dialogue over divisive issues and conversations that center in on the core things that move us toward a flourishing for all people.  May we be a people that are authentic, and that are brave enough, and have the courage that only comes from Holy Spirit to "make the most of every opportunity", as the Bible says.  May we love in ways that don't make sense.  May we live radically the way of Jesus.

Chris

---->Try this link to watch Tim Siegel's talk<----