Do-Overs
Usually, when we say, “I sure wish I could get a ‘do-over’ on that one,” we’re talking about something we’ve screwed up. Something we regret.
But maybe it’s time we looked at things we’d do exactly the same way if we got a do-over. Maybe we’re so critical of ourselves that we’ve forgotten about the good things we’ve done. Instead of thinking about our messes and misses, what if we gave equal time to the decisions we got right. Decisions we’d make the same way if we got a do-over. Here’s a few of mine . . .
To follow Jesus – Last night marked the 35th anniversary of the evening when I told God “I’m all in. I’m accepting your forgiveness and your offer to start over. From now on, it’s you and me, God . . . you and me!” Best decision I ever made. Period.
To marry Miriam – Throughout our 49 years of marriage, this woman has elevated my game in every respect. Without her, there’s no telling where I’d be or where I’d be buried! Her consistency and character singlehandedly held our family together in the years before I surrendered to Christ.
To have children – As a culture, we’re having fewer and fewer children. Thousands of couples are choosing not to, yielding to the fear of raising kids in an uncertain world and to their desire to keep life simple and live life as “just us two.” Having our two children (and ultimately grandchildren) has made our lives interesting, fulfilling, and complete. Kids fill a space in the world that nothing else comes close to filling.
To leave my hometown – After attending my 50th high school class reunion last weekend, I’m glad we moved away from the small town where I grew up. While those who stayed have a familiarity with each other and their community seems appealing, the opportunities we were given living in new places with different people added value to our lives and our perspectives.
To serve my parents well – When my parents were well, I took them for granted. As they aged and became more fragile, we visited more and became more focused on loving them and meeting their needs. I’m so glad we did. While their memory is distant in my rearview memory, it’s attached to the positive things we did to make their lives rich in their last years. While it was inconvenient and often dull, I’d do it all again.
To stay in church – From the time we were engaged to this very day, Miriam and I stayed involved in a local church. Sometimes peripherally, sometimes intensely but never disconnected. There’s something about belonging, worshipping together, hearing sermons, giving money, watching your kids participate in different things . . . church has added massive value to our lives.
To be a mentor – I paused when that first 25-year-old guy asked if I’d meet with him to “talk about some stuff.” As a 35-year-old, I was busy with my job, wife, and two small kids. I felt inadequate, but I said “yes,” opening the door to the most fulfilling ‘ministry’ a man can have . . . helping those coming behind you by sharing your experience and insight.
Take a few minutes today and jot down the things you’d do over exactly the same way. Reflect on your list. Tell God thank you for reminding you of the good stuff.
Scripture: Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children’s children. (Deuteronomy 4:9)
Breathe New Life Into Your Discipleship
Small group mentoring can help you engage your people, build your core group of leaders, and transform your church. Our free resources equip you with all the tools you need to launch a sustainable mentoring program.
Responses (3)
Great one Regi!!!
Fantastic article!
What a positive look back at our lives.
So much to be thankful for in spite of the valleys.
Great post! Love the positive tone of it. Fortunately, by God’s grace, the things I’d do over again greatly exceed the things I’d do differently!