Cheeseballs for Jesus
When out and about I often get asked, “Ok, why do you really do this?” That’s my favorite question! When given the opportunity, you’ll hear me share that the number one reason I carry snacks on my back is because of Jesus.
I realize this may have just gotten really super cheesy for you (no pun intended), but I ask you to read on. I have had the opportunity to do a lot in my short life. I’ve traveled the globe from China to Turkey, Mexico, Israel, Greece, Japan and Saipan. I’ve lived a life of adventure from spear fishing and getting chased by a shark (sort of) to cliff jumping and motorcycling. I’ve accomplished much from developing a coffee shop to becoming a mentor, a coach, a college athlete and a professional speaker.
I can honestly say that none of that compares to the joy of knowing God, through His Son Jesus Christ. When I say “knowing God”, I don’t mean knowing about Him. I mean actually knowing Him, in a real relationship kind of way. I talk to God and He talks to me – not in a freaky audible voice like from the Wizard of Oz, but by a peace in my soul, a check in my spirit, a word from a friend or a verse from the Bible. God speaks to me through His creation. His presence is evident as I gaze on the sunset or reflect upon a rainbow.
Knowing God is a journey. I started when I was young and have never been disappointed. Well, I have been disappointed by others, by myself, but never by my God. I’ve had rough spells in life and I’ve experienced depression and anxiety. I’ve had thoughts of ending it all and throwing in the towel, but with God’s help I was able to press on.
God never promised an easy life if we’d follow Him. John 16:33 promises us the opposite. “In this world, you will have troubles.” But the verse goes on to say, “But take heart, I (Jesus), have overtaken the world”. In the midst of the pain and the trials, God was my rock. He is never changing, always faithful and always forgiving. That gives me something to smile and be joyful about.
What is joy all about and where can it be found? Is it found in cheeseballs, a smile, a laugh, a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, the perfect relationship, a new car, the dream job, the six pack abs, fitting in to a size 2 dress, winning American Idol, winning the lottery?
In reality, joy is what we all want, but so few possess. Joy is the ability to be content in whatever the circumstance. Joy is Jesus. Joy is knowing Him, being secure in Him and being content in Him. Joy is available to all but chosen by few. What will you choose?
As for me, I choose Jesus, and thereby get joy! Whahoo! Though cheeseballs make me giggle and adventure makes me grin, I have found true and lasting joy in none other than my relationship with Jesus.
If you’ve gotten this far, I want you to know I have prayed for you. If you are even the slight bit curious in experiencing this joy I speak of, take a few minutes to Meet the Big Cheese.
