The Launch

This last month has provided me with a backpack full of fresh messages and mind stretching presentations at conferences and gatherings across the nation. I admit that my CA trip was more for pleasure, but I was
challenged and encouraged by renewing past relationships and sharing the story of The Miracle Tour.

For those who are unfamiliar with this core passion in my life, let me give you a head’s-up. I believe in the power of God to change lives and destinies. I believe that the transition years between high school and college are crucial.

Once you hit a campus and leave the seeing eye of your parents, you are on your own to create and determine your own future. Some will stay at home and continue with local schools, but many will leave for other states and cities hoping to find their individual pathways to becoming an adult.

Along that path there will be obvious challenges and temptations, but also the opportunity to step forward into the gifts and callings God created you to excel in and represent Him in this world. Don’t waste these years. They are significant.

I do not agree with popular dogma that they are “the best years of your life.” Having lived long past college, I can genuinely say they are only the beginning of great things. They will either launch you or you will find yourself stuck in a circular world of “good ole days.” Let these years be the beginning of greatness in your lives. God is all about the launch.

One of the key ingredients in your college bag should be relationships that carry the mark of Christ. The kind of relationships that know your business and support you through the struggles, by reminding you who you really are, and what you are made of. That kind of friend is priceless and no American Express card can match their value. Make a commitment to hang-on to these foundational friends. Be real with them. You will need each other.

As you meet new friends at college don’t rush into anything too quickly. That advice may surprise you, but take your time with friendships. Learn a little about a person’s character before you give away your heart and soul. Be a good friend to others, but be discerning. Not everyone is what that appear and first impressions can be deceiving. Make sure YOU are what you say you are and live like you believe. This is your responsibility. It is also your privilege and honor.

One of the key speakers I have heard in the last month was an aged ambassador to the United States. He was small in stature and gave his speech with a broken and faint voice. I was moved to tears at the giant of a man on the stage. His life was his stature. He was a key architect of the treaty between the Soviet Union and the US’ nuclear disarmament. This was just one of his accomplishments. His point was “the power of the ought.”

“If you see injustice or suffering in the world, you ought to do something about it.” We ought to make a difference as believers and Christ followers. It is so much more than just acquiring the knowledge to know what is good, but the win is in doing it. That is where you will all step-into the launch zone. Do what you ought to do with your life. Do something great and worthy of your King. Aim high.