Brenda’s Blog – April 4, 2023
“Don’t sign me up for the ‘usta club’ – I am still doing.”
In Dad’s last year he noticed his retired high achieving friends with a common pattern: spending time replaying their success – whether high school Friday night victories, corporate ladder climbing, or community recognition. He recognized a familiar phrase… ”I used to do this; I used to do that.” The “this” and “that” varied, but the exercise remained the same. He began calling it the “usta club.”
One of Dad’s life principles was “make longer term plans for when you make shorter ones you are giving yourself permission to die.” At 80 he and Mom recarpeted and made sure it came with a 20 year warranty.
The phrase “God is on the move!” is heard from ministry leaders, Asbury University students, and even the media. Those who believe in a deity who may have created, but then sat down to relax miss one of the most wonderful elements of orthodoxy – the everyday, intimate relationship of God with us. Scripture tells us He is “yesterday, today, and forever.” He truly is always on the move.
What that tells me is that I miss out by driving with my eyes firmly affixed to the rear view mirror. He has ways for me to be on the move, as well. Until our death He puts us in drive. Yes, we are to remember the past – to cancel it is foolish and sad. But the work assignments God created for us are up to date and active… so we should be current.
Our stories are important, but they should emphasize the greatness, the kindness, the sovereignty, and the protection of our God. As we look back we can retire our “Usta Club” t-shirt. Each day we have something new, something meaningful, and something to be excited about – Yay!