December 6, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Are YOU Willing To Make An Epic Splash For Jesus Chris   (Michael T)

Bible Study Verses

Matthew 14:28-33 

And Peter answered Him, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.  But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." Jesus immediately reached out His hand and took hold of him, saying to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"  And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.  And those in the boat worshiped Him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God." (ESV)

Thoughts
During my adolescent years I had always heard adults or parents say, "Would you jump off a bridge just because somebody else did?"  My reply, "Well of course, given the right circumstances." 

It's a parent's job to protect their children, but it's a child's job to experience life to the fullest and to make their parents nervous. I know as a child, we loved to play in the woods and we were always ecstatic when we came upon a local watering hole that we could swim in. It was even better when there was a diving board, a rope swing, or something high to jump off.

My all-time favorite swimming hole was located on the Muskegon River in northern Michigan. Our church held an annual family camping trip and the highlight of the week was canoeing for four hours and ending up at an old bridge. It was here memories were made that will last a lifetime. 

While we waited for the canoe livery staff to pick us up, our group would climb the steel beams of the one lane bridge and stand thirty feet above the river. After the river was checked for a safe water level and that there was no debris in the landing zone, one by one we would jump. As a young boy, I am thankful that my father allowed me to experience an adventure like this even though I am sure my mother was quietly objecting in her heart!
(Mike T)

Action Point
Living the Christian life is exactly like jumping off of this bridge or swinging on a rope swing. It is both exhilarating and scary at times. But when you have a God, Who promises to love you, provide for you, and keep you safe, why wouldn't you answer His calling? 

What is God calling you to do today? Are you willing to make an epic splash for Jesus Christ?

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Always check out any natural swimming hole for a safe water depth and for dangerous objects, like trees, boulders, or man-made objects, especially in a river where the current can leave debris from year-to-year. God designed us for adventure, but we also need to be safe and cautious about everything we do.