"Keeper"

          At 17 years old, I was well on my way to becoming a drug addicted, alcoholic architect.  At that time, I was doing many things wrong and though I tried to stop many of these things, I found that I could not do it on my own self will.  Then, I met a person who had invited me to church, where I was first introduced to Jesus Christ and His people.  On one Sunday, I surrendered my life to Jesus and when asked what I wanted from Him, I made a quick decision to accept whatever He gave.

          That was 20 years ago and the ride has been truly interesting.  I have had many ups and downs since that day and have learned many things.  There have been great victories, as well as some great disappointments.  There is a verse in Jude that Paul writes that encourages me when it seems all is coming to destruction, either by my hands or by out enemies.  It reads, "To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy - to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power, and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages now and forever more!"

          It is true that man is born to trouble, as sure as sparks fly upward.  If we spend too much time looking at the trouble that has beset us on every side (both self inflicted and those imposed externally through intent and simply living), we can get disheartened by the fact that we are so unworthy of the love and care Christ has given us.  However, the longer I live, the more impressed I am with the fact that Christ has never, ever, ever let go!  He has always held on to me with loving arms and He has brought me back when I have stumbled.  He continues to lead me, even when I do not always notice.

         Lift up your eyes to the hill - where does your help come from?  Your help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.  He will not let your foot slip -  He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.  The LORD watches over you - the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.  The LORD will keep you from all harm - He will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. (Psalm 121, NIV)

         So today at 38 years old, I keep on keeping on and living life for Him.  I am forever grateful for what Jesus has done for me and when I am down, He continually lifts me up.  As to how far He will lift me up, it is completely up to the Lord but I know that He will never let me go.  Thank you Jesus!