Parsley . . . Sage . . . Rosemary . . . Thyme. Just the cook's ingredients, unless the cook is a poet.
As I drove home I switched my XM radio dial to the 60's station and was treated to Simon and Garfunkel's "Scarborough Fair/Canticle." This English ballad has roots that dig deep into the 18th century, but the folk duo made it famous in 1966. It is just one of a string of their hits that endure. As I climbed out of my car, I pulled my copy of The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin off the passenger seat. Published in 1791, Franklin's story endures. Tonight as I sit in my home, Joe Dimaggio's biography sits on my night stand. The "Yankee Clipper's" 56-game hitting streak is an enduring mark in the national pastime.
An enduring song, an enduring book, an enduring mark.
There is something deep within me that longs to outlive me . . . that wants to endure! Merely existing is not satisfactory. Killing time is an absolute travesty.
What's the secret?
I look at the lives of Simon and Garfunkel, Benjamin Franklin, and Joe Dimaggio and I think I see it. They started! Paul Simon hummed a tune, Franklin put pen to paper, Dimaggio stepped up to the plate. Inside, I tell myself, Tommy, START!
Yes, starting is essential. One can't endure if one doesn't begin! But then I hear that refrain, "parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme" and I think: The words did not start -- they surrendered to the poet.
We are the words, God is the Poet. Before we start, we must surrender to Him.
- I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Romans 12:1 ESV
- Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established. Proverbs 16:3 ESV
I don't think it is wrong to want to leave a mark, to live a life that endures. We are all hard-wired for eternity. But before I begin building my legacy I must remember to turn over all of me . . . my time, my talents, and my treasures.
Today, before you start, surrender your life afresh to the Poet.
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Remember The 40 Days Of Prayer Adventure (Day 17)
The Spanish River Church family is on an exciting adventure we're calling, 40 Days of Prayer. Today we are highlighting Phil & Jenny Letizia of City Church Wilton Manors. Phil is the pastor of this new family of faith in Ft. Lauderdale. Click here or scan the QR code below to find out more about how to pray for them.
