Perseverance and Perspective.

Today was a tension of wanting more time to think and reflect on specific moments while desiring to see the next thing. Washington D.C. is filled with much more than one day can contain, but we did our best. Throughout the day I was atuned to a theme of sacrifice and committment. The memorials underscore the reality that true learning far surpasses the scope of any four walled classroom. Seeing a vietnam veteran ask the park ranger to transfer the name of a friend onto paper frames the "conflict" in a different light. Reading Lincoln's second innagural address demonstrates the saturation of scripture in the culture. It's hard to understand those things if you have not experienced them yourself.

As I reflect upon today I am reminded of the need to not shrink back from challenge. I'm thankful for the men and women who have gone before me and whom have not let their fears direction their actions. Bravery is not the absence of fear, but it is not letting fears control you.

This morning I was reading (listening actually)1 Thesalonians 2 and this theme was also present. Here's an excerpt;

"1You know, brothers, that our visit to you was not a failure. 2We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition. 3For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. 4On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts. 5You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. 6We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else."

With the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition.

I wonder about the legacy that I will leave. Will it be one that others look back upon and say, that in spite of strong opposition, he dared to speak the truth? May it so be.