The meaning of life?

I really enjoyed the church service this past Sunday. Lately I've been trying to alter the way I've been handling "life". I want to be more helpful, more kind, more loving to everyone around me. I want people to be able to see something different about me without announcing that I'm a "christian". I shouldn't have too. They should see God's love through me! Every since I read the book, Crazy Love, I understand more how this life is not about me at all. It's insane to think that the God of the universe loves me so unconditional (and you too, of course). But personally, when I think about how big and amazing he is, I'm shocked. I remember being in Oregon on the beach, late at night, not a cloud in the sky.... looking up, I've never seen so many stars. It was incredible. I can't even comprehend how far it goes nor can I comprehend the vastness of His love.

The very thought of that should make me GET up and DO something. When your in love with someone, don't you want to do something special for that person? Why is it hard sometimes with God? Is it because we can't physically see him, hear Him loud and clear... maybe its because if we ignore Him for alittle, He'll always be there with open arms when we return.... no matter what. 

But that's so wonderful. No one has ALWAYS been there for me. God is the only one who is there no matter the amount of mess ups, disobeying, ignoring, lies.... all is always forgiven. Now that's LOVE.

I need to show my love back more. I want to get a tattoo in the palm of my hand. A heart right in the center to remind me that God offers me love and I need to give that love back to him through loving others. Yesterday sermon was about serving. It came from the verse Mark 10:35-45. JR touched on some reasons why it's good to serve.

Big Reasons:
1. I was created for service (My life has a purpose. God created me for a reason).
2. I am saved for service
3. I've been called by God to service
4. I've been gifted for service
5. I am commanded to serve others
6. Proves that I belong to Christ
7. My church family needs my service
8. Serving others is the way to serve God
9. Because I owe everything to Christ
10. Because service makes life meaningful
11. I will be held accountable for my service
12. Because I will be rewarded for eternity

I like the #12 is last. Many Christians (I used to do this too) serve God because they don't want to "go to hell". Why are we serving God just so we will be rewarded? Again... motives are so wrong. Do things not because of what YOU can get from it... Do it out of Love. Sometimes people serve to show off... again, wrong motives. Don't just flex your spiritual muscles. Have a purpose for the muscle. Believe me when I say, I need to hear this just as much as the next person.

Also, I liked when JR was talking about how some Christians think that the church is suppose to help their needs, pray for them, serve them, be there for them. And yes, of course. The church is suppose to serve others BUT just as much as you should be serving others. We/I need to change our/my focus off ourselves/myself and live outwardly.

I really want to fulfill my purpose, because God has given me a wonderful life. I'm so grateful for so many things. My family are phenomenal. My friends are awesome. My boyfriend is incredible.  Nature is breathe-taking. I have a job that I love, a place to live, food, music, talents. SO MUCH.

Thank you. Thank you. 

This sermon is on the website at www.storehousechurch.com on Nov. 1, 2009.