Saturday, October 17, 2009

Laws of the Lighthouse


Laws of the Lighthouse
by Max Lucado

The first of the year is known for three things: black-eyed peas, bowl games, and lists. Some don't eat black-eyed peas. Others hate football. But everybody likes lists.

The Bible certainly has its share of lists. Moses brought one down from the mountain.

There are lists of the gifts of the Spirit. Lists of good fruit and bad. Lists of salutations and greetings. Even the disciples' boat got into the action as it listed in the stormy Sea of Galilee. (If you smiled at that, then I've got a list of puns you'd enjoy.)

But the greatest day of lists is still New Year's Day. And the number one list is the list I call the Laws of the Lighthouse.

The Laws of the Lighthouse contain more than good ideas, personal preferences, and honest opinions. They are God-given, time-tested truths that define the way you should navigate your life. Observe them and enjoy secure passage. Ignore them and crash against the ragged rocks of reality.

Smart move. The wise captain shifts the direction of his craft according to the signal of the lighthouse. A wise person does the same.

Herewith, then, are the lights I look for and the signals I heed:

-- Love God more than you fear hell.
-- Once a week, let a child take you on a walk.
-- Make major decisions in a cemetery.
-- When no one is watching, live as if someone is.
-- Succeed at home first.
-- Don't spend tomorrow's money today.
-- Pray twice as much as you fret.
-- Listen twice as much as you speak.
-- Only harbor a grudge when God does.
-- Never outgrow your love of sunsets.
-- Treat people like angels; you will meet some and help make some.
-- 'Tis wiser to err on the side of generosity than on the side of scrutiny.
-- God has forgiven you; you'd be wise to do the same.
-- When you can't trace God's hand, trust his heart.
-- Toot your own horn and the notes will be flat.
-- Don't feel guilty for God's goodness.
-- The book of life is lived in chapters, so know your page number.
-- Never let the important be the victim of the trivial.
-- Live your liturgy.

To sum it all up:
Approach life like a voyage on a schooner. Enjoy the view. Explore the vessel. Make friends with the captain. Fish a little. And then get off when you get home.

Today's Tip: Donate unused books to a library or church bookstore.

3 comments:

  1. What a beautiful post for me, today. Thank you, Kat! I love this...and it touched me deeply. Just what I needed this morning.

    Thank you for your prayers, encouragement and support. I am thankful GOD brought you into my life. The blogging world has been an amazing blessing and to think my friend Mary at Divinely Designed had to drag, push, and force me into it. GOD BLESS her diligence. She knew what I needed.

    Blessings, hugs, and prayers, andrea

    PS: Hoping and praying for Steve's quick and safe return!

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  2. Great list of wisdom! Thank you for posting! Have a wonderful weekend and God bless you sister!

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  3. Love this List! Checking off each one daily ..... :)

    Love you sooo

    ((((((HUGS))))))

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Looking forward to seeing how you made a difference today!