People love recognition. It is encouraging to get noticed or to hold an "important" position. We long to feel like "somebody."

Brent and I enjoy watching the Olympics. Many heartwarming stories of determination and perseverance, plus it is amazing to watch the excellence, precision not to mention speeds they go!

Last night was our staff appreciation dinner with years of service, Teacher of the Year and "Someone Special" awards being given out with words of kindness and affirmation. Another cool program Zionsville has every year is "Everybody Counts" which recognizes each of us with our own limitations, yet we all have a voice, everyone matters.

I'm so grateful to be a Christian. It sounds so simple, but it's no small thing: To be unconditionally loved by the Creator of the Universe, no matter if you're important or not. No matter if you "win" at life or not. Not a small thing. It is one of those awesome mysteries and I wonder why more people don't grasp the concept and pursue Him.

Consider: the way people go crazy at sporting events; the way atheletes are rewarded; the way celebrities are put on pedestals and practically worshipped.

I remember when BJ was invited to a baseball game with our neighbors - their daughter was one of BJ's best friends. They loved to talk - imagine that. BJ talked throughout the entire game. His favorite subject: the things of God. His talk was not mindless chatter. Had we known his time was short would we have listened more intently?

Do we listen when the Word speaks? Psalm 111 reminds us that the "fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom."

We fear the wrong things. We're deceived and confused. We've lost sight of the basic fear of the Lord. His power and might surpass any hulk or superhero we've ever imagined.

"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction: the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life."
Galatians 6:7-8

mom