Eleven years ago my mother succumbed to cancer. The memories of the days leading up to and after her passing are still clear as day in my head. I remember that Friday night before she passed, and the laughter and love that filled her hospital room. Those memories I will always cherish.
Last week at Catalyst we started a series entitled "One Month To Live," and you can guess what the topic covers. I turned 34 last month, and I have come face to face with my mortality. I'm not sick or anything, but I realized that I need to change some things so that I can live a life that honors God better. I am overweight by about 60 lbs, and I eat horribly. I don't exercise, and I am sick of it. Last month Nicole and I joined LA Fitness, and we are working with trainers to get on track. My friends are holding me accountable, and are being really supportive. Even Neil. Last week we got together for Guy's night, and one pointed out that I was eating better when he saw my carrots and water.
Another motivating factor? I want to be the man my mother always dreamed I'd be. She believed I would be a success in whatever I did. Even though she didn't understand why I left Catholicism when I became a Christian, she never harassed me over it. All she ever did was attempt to provide my siblings and I the opportunity to live better lives than what she had lived.
So, if I had 30 days to live, what would I do? Spend time with family and friends, share God's love and Christ's gift with everyone I met, and try to leave a lasting legacy. Not mine, but my mother's. You see, she taught me how to live for Christ, and that's what I want to teach others, using words if necessary.
So, what would you do in your 30 days? Write it down, and put it into action. Live like you are supposed to live. Make a difference for Christ.
