Everyone has a story. It didn't occur to me until recently that each person is not simply the protagonist in their story, but they actually play multiple parts. I had no idea how many roles I play in my own story, and the list surprised me.
To my God, I am a follower, a disciple, a princess, a witness. To my family, I'm a daughter, a sister, a sister-in-law, a niece, a cousin, and, as of January 30th, an aunt. To a sweet guy, I am a (lucky) girlfriend. For some people, I am a friend. For Beachy Beach, I am the assistant (Karen's shadow, the director of first impressions, IT guy, electronic "expert," my favorite: Karen's spoiled princess, etc). For Plexus, I am an ambassador. And to a sweet puppy, I'm her Mommy.
When I first realized the number of parts I play and hats I wear, I honestly felt a overwhelmed and stressed, but then I remembered I serve a great God that is always strong even in my weaknesses. Alone, I cannot handle everything, but "With God ALL things are possible!" I won't say this is easy, but I know it is all worth it. And I know so many people play numerous more roles that I do, and I applaud those that can juggle everything.
Some of these roles are brand new to me, and I still have so much to learn with each of them. I recognize that I am a master of none of these, and there is always room for improvement. But because I now understand what parts I play in this story, I will be able to go into a New Year with a better game plan. In 2016, I will have the opportunity to learn my lines and hide God's Word in my heart (Psalm 119:11), let God be the Director of my life, (Proverbs 3:6), practice until I get it right (Philippians 4:9), dress my part with strength and dignity (Proverbs 31:25), overcome stage-fright and other fears (Psalm 27:11), and when all else fails, improv and make it up as I go but seeking God first in all things (Matthew 6:33). This year, I promise to do my best in every role that I play.
We are only a few hours away until midnight, and I have decided the verse I will strive to live by in 2016, is Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."
Happy New Year to You and Yours! May God Bless You in 2016!
