Sacrifice

I grew up watching Indiana Jones and all sorts of campy movies. I’m familiar with human sacrifices. I’ve seen it before. Christianity is based on sacrifice, and so are all the major religions. Self- sacrifice is Parenting 101. It’s everywhere. During war and peace, there are always sacrifices to be made. In America, we sacrifice the poor and the minority communities. We sacrifice what we don’t value. Interesting enough, God asks for sacrifices, too. God asks for the things we value. God wants our time, our tenth, and our talent. God wants our first fruits. God wants our best. What are you willing to sacrifice?

Grind

Grind. Hustle. Work. Perseverance. All of these words come to mind when I think about what it takes to accomplish our goals. We have to focus and commit to the goal at hand. We have to sacrifice. Sacrifice is where the line in the sand is drawn. Most people give up when it requires more than they initially thought. Our dreams cost us time. They cost us money. Sometimes, they cost us relationships, but its worth it in the end. Grind because its worth it. Grind because you know there’s more to life. Grind because you want to see the manifestation of your dreams coming true. Grind for the next generation. Grind for your legacy.

Tribute

When I started my publishing company, it was with the intention that every book, journal, magazine, and card would be a testament to something God has done in my life. A testament by definition is tangible proof. As you take the time to memorialize those who have served this country, remember all the sacrifices that have been made on your behalf. Honor those who have died for you to enjoy freedoms they never experienced. Pay tribute to those who made a way out of no way.

More

There's more. I want more. I need more. I should be doing more. There's more to life than....What? What is that in us that can't appreciate the now? What is that in us that makes us think that what we have is not enough especially since there are people who live in unspeakable poverty. There are war-ravaged countries where combat is the norm. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with goals and dreams, but there needs to be some balance. We need to learn to appreciate what we have now. Sometimes, that promotion means less quality time with your family, but it does mean more money. Which one takes a priority in your life. Sometimes, what we want costs us more than we can afford...literally and figuratively. Ask yourself if your "more" is a blessing or a curse. Will it hinder or profit you in the long run? Sometimes, sacrifice is necessary for the greater good. Sometimes, you do need a bigger house or a bigger car. Sometimes, you do need a better job with better benefits. Sometimes, you absolutely do need more. Make sure you are seeking after the right "mores." Make sure you evaluate what "more" is going to really cost you, and if it's really worth it.

Yelp

Genesis 4: 10 And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground.

In light of recent events, I was reminded of the story of Cane and Abel. Long story short, Cane killed his brother out of jealousy. While it seems hard to fathom, what would cause someone to kill another human being in cold blood? We live in a day and age where murder and genocide are all too common. Our churches are not safe. Holy ground is not sacred. Domestic terrorism is real. I can't help but think that but by the grace of God that could have been my church, my cousin's mosque, or my co-worker's synagogue. As people of faith, we must recognize that there must be some sort of atonement. Just as Abel's blood cried out, so does the victim's of America's violent past and present. Can you hear their cries? What can we do to help prevent these senseless tragedies? Is it gun control? Is it acknowledging mental health? Is it recognizing domestic terrorism? Sound the alarm. Hear the yelp, and ask what hast thou done?

yelp noun

1. a short sharp cry, especially of pain or alarm.