Dream a little dream

I have been giving a little thought about my dreams and passions in life and am discouraged to realize that I have forgotten or given up on most of my dreams of the past. In school, life was just an opportunity waiting to happen. I was excited, alive and ready to tackle my loftiest ambitions. Then, life happens. I began operating in "emergency management." I am merely trying to survive life's little circumstances. I have failed to pause and look around to see where I am going. Am I even going in the direction I wish to go?

My wife, Amy, is much better at this than I and it frustrates her to no end to see me so entrenched in my "ruts" that I am high centered and just spinning my wheels. I need to get out of my "ruts" and engage in life to see what really drives me. I have been leading a Sunday School Class discussing Max Lucado's Cure for the Common Life: Living in Your Sweet Spot. My thoughts derived from my reading/discussion: I am seeing some success in my current occupation because I am operating within my skill set. I am not as satisfied with my current occupation as I desire because I am not utilizing enough of my skills in my "knacksack." I also fear failure because I am having to function in areas that are not my strengths.

Dear Lord,

Guide me as I look to free myself from life's "ruts." Prod me to engage in my life and discover my drive/passion. Speak to me about my calling in life for your plan. Pour your love upon me so, that I may pass that love to others in my life. Shield my heart from the enemies arrows. Watch over my life and my family. Thank you for being a compassionate father providing abundant blessings for me. I thank you for always trying to speak to me, offering encouragement or correction. I pray that my own concerns fail to interrupt your voice in my heart. I pray that my actions speak of your love and wisdom. I pray that I engage into the life you have called me to.

Mark