Hey !
Today is National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day. I didn't even know there was a National Chocolate Pecan Pie Day.
I find it interesting that, of all of the "National Days" that involve food, the vast majority of them are junk food. National Doughnut Day, National Ice Cream Day, National Pizza Day.
I find it interesting how these days tend to be things we enjoy anyway. We really don't need a reminder.
However, there are some "National Days" that don't get a whole lot of attention. For instance, National Buy Nothing Day. Pretty good idea for those of us trying to consume a little less. There's also National Take a Hike Day, inviting us to get outside for a little exercise.
It's strange how the things that are best for us don't hold the same popularity as things like junk food and decadence. Maybe it's because unhealthy things come easy. Laziness is a breeze, sugary foods taste good, and credit cards relieve us of the burden of saving and being patient.
But, what comes with a cost has the opposite effect on us. Where immediate gratification has an immediate reward and long-term consequence, delayed gratification has immediate consequence with long-term reward.
That's powerful.
Matthew 16:25 says, "If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it."
Jesus is talking about eternal life here, but the principle remains true of the life we are living here and now.
So, I want to issue you a challenge. What is one act of self-denial that you can practice over the next 30 days?
Maybe deny yourself from posting on social media? Maybe fast sweets? Maybe go on a spending fast? (By the way, Wendy and I have been on a 12 month spending fast and I love it!)
How about a National Read More Day? National Delayed Gratification Day?
Let me know if you decide to take the challenge, and what you're going to do!
See you Sunday!
Living a passionate mission,
Lee Bezotte
Lead Pastor, Mercy Vineyard Church
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