Final thoughts for 2024

“What brought you joy today?”  That was the surprising question that a customer asked me at work recently; this came from a female customer that I had never waited on before.  I often joke that I’ve worked at Chick-fil-A since the dawn of time, but in all those years, no one has ever asked me the question “what brought you joy today?”  In essence, I answered that it was a joy to have the opportunity wake up again today; to have a beating heart, and to have the health to be at Chick-fil-A serving.  Incidentally, just to complete the story, I asked this lady the same question she asked me, and essentially, she replied that it was a joy for her to be in Colorado, visiting her boyfriend.  This whole exchange reminded me that there is great power in being others-focused.

It is easy to be reflective at this time of the year.  One looks back at the previous days, and we also look forward to the coming year.  I certainly have been reflective of the past, and anticipating the coming days.  2023 was a year that was absolutely shattering to me in so many ways.  I was shattered emotionally, and my health deteriorated; actually I wasn’t far from dying.  So, based on all that, 2024 has been such a gift to me.  I was already contemplating how much I relish the gift of life, and this was largely why I answered the “what brought you joy” question in the way I did.  I love Psalm 3:5, where David writes, “I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustained me.”  Every day is a gift.  It has been a tremendous blessing this year to heal, not just physically, but also emotionally.

This is not to suggest that 2024 was a year filled with smooth sailing and sunny skies.  There have been several difficult moments; significant episodes that I could go on and on detailing.  Perhaps I will divulge more specifics later on, but for now, know that there were hard days this year.  Through it all, I found myself grateful not just for my physical life, but also for my friendship and fellowship with the God of the universe.  Everything that I am, everything that I do flows from knowing Him.  In fact, I want to take a moment to publicly give the Lord all the glory, honor, and praise for anything helpful or beneficial in my writings.  Psalm 115:1 in the NLT, says, “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your Name goes all the glory.”

Let me also quickly acknowledge that I am still very much what you might classify a work in progress.  I’m so grateful that you take the time to read this blog, but don’t think of me as the paragon of virtue.  Yes, I certainly desire to honor God in all I do, but I fall short seemingly every day.  Paul put it in this way in Philippians 3:

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected, but I press on…I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (verses 12-14).  Amen and amen! 

Let me end with this.  I also love the words from earlier in Philippians; in chapter 1, verse 6, we read these words: “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”  That seems a fitting note to end this year’s blogs on!

God bless,

Kevin

December reflections

In the series finale of “Arrow” the mayor of Star City, Quentin Lance, was about to unveil a memorial statue honoring Oliver Queen – alias the Green Arrow – for his noble sacrifice.  Lance began by saying these words:

“Thank you for coming.  For a long time, I hated Oliver Queen.  I blamed him for the death of my youngest daughter, I blamed him for the violence in my city.  I interrogated him.  I hunted him, persecuted him.  I’ve never been more wrong in my life.  Oliver Queen wasn’t just a hero; he was a good man; an honorable person.  The fact that he didn’t start out that way makes him, in my book, even more honorable.  He stands as a reminder to all of us that anyone can change.  So will this [statue].” 

I begin this way for two reasons.  First, to remember Oliver Queen and the entire so-called “Arrowverse” – a universe of interconnected TV series – that officially ended earlier this month.  I was late to the show “Arrow”, but thanks to Netflix, I got caught up.  Oliver started off as a selfish playboy, to a lone wolf vigilante who wanted to save his city all alone, to inspiring others to fight alongside him; a group known as “Team Arrow”.  As a matter of fact, in the end, important figures like The Flash, Supergirl, and Superman willingly followed Oliver.  Ultimately, Oliver Queen selflessly gave his life to save others, and then in true superhero story fashion, actually came back from the dead – demonstrating for us a type, a shadow, a picture of Jesus Christ.

Secondly, I am bringing all this up because I have in mind that someone is need of change.  You don’t recognize the person looking back at you in the mirror anymore.  You’ve made bad decisions.  Lance was right in his speech: Oliver Queen does show us that anyone can change, but I submit to you that often such a change is impossible, unless they have an encounter with the God of the universe named Jesus the Christ.  When Jesus walked this Earth over 2,000 years ago, He revolutionized lives, and He is still revolutionizing lives to this day. 

One man Jesus changed was the Apostle Paul.  Here was a man who violently persecuted anyone associated with the name of Jesus; but one day on the road to Damascus, Jesus spoke to him (you can read all about this in Acts 9) and his life was forever changed.  Paul went on to boldly share the love and grace he had found in Jesus.  He once wrote, “that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24).

As I said, earlier this month it was the end of an era; the show “Superman and Lois” had an absolutely incredible series finale.  The conclusion of the show also marked the end of the “Arrowverse” saga; an era that began with Oliver Queen in “Arrow” back in 2012.  Being careful to not give spoilers, I can tell you that in the last scene in “Superman and Lois” Clark states, “Do everything you can to find love; to give it, to hold on to it.  Because life it goes by so fast.”  I resonated with his words.  Number one: it indeed has gone by fast; the years have quickly flown by.  Number two: his remarks on love made me think of Christmas, and the extravagant, unconditional love of God. 

The most famous verse in the Bible is actually an appropriate Christmas verse: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).  In another place, Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest…for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29).  That offer from Jesus is for you today.  Let this be the best Christmas ever, because you put your faith, hope, and trust in Jesus, the Christ of Christmas.

Can I conclude today by sharing my own testimony?  Jesus revolutionized my life too; I met him as a young boy.  A pastor once put it this way: He saved me not only from who I was, but who I would have become.  To live life with the God of the universe makes for a life that is anything but boring.  It can be bumpy and turbulent at times, but there’s no better way to live.  This testimony comes from the depths of my heart and soul.  The beloved Christian singer, Carman, in a song called “1955” once sang these words; they are my heart cry as well: “I believe in a God that sets the captive free.  I believe in the blood that flows from Calvary…I’m so glad that the Lord saved me.  I’m so glad that the Lord saved me.  If it had not been for Jesus, where would I be?  I’m so glad that the Lord saved me.” 

God bless,

Kevin

Chapters

Back in August, Colt McCoy announced his retirement, after being in the NFL since 2010.  I missed this news when it happened, but recently came across an article by Nick Shook, an NFL.com writer who reported the news.  He shared how Colt McCoy was drafted by the Cleveland Browns.  Because of injuries, Colt was thrown into action as the starter earlier than anticipated.  “He would go on to start 21 games for Cleveland,” Nick Shook writes, “posting a 6-15 record while playing for two different coaches (Eric Mangini, Pat Shurmur).  By his third (and final) season with the Browns, McCoy was nothing more than a backup behind Brandon Weeden before Cleveland traded him to San Francisco in 2013.” 

The author of this article goes on to write that McCoy would subsequently give his talents as a backup for several more teams.  “Throughout the back end of his career, he was considered by many to be a reliable option in case of emergency under center, a quarterback capable of keeping a team afloat for a temporary period.”  He also reported that McCoy is going to be transitioning to broadcasting for “its expanded Big Ten football coverage this season.”  The article can be found right here.

With everything going on right now, why would I bring this up now?  It’s the final days leading up to Christmas; December birthdays occupy my mind, like my brother’s 40th, and one of my coworker’s birthday is tomorrow.  Not to mention the impressive conclusion of “Superman and Lois” that aired back on 12/2, and with it, the end of the “Arrowverse” era.  So again, with all of this, why blog about the retirement this NFL player?  Because of the impact Colt McCoy had on me seeing him, from afar, go through the adversity of a devastating playoff loss and injury, and to see his bold stand after the loss.  Let me back up.

In 2011, I brought up Colt McCoy and his Texas Longhorns in a blog.  I had shared that in 2009, Colt had gotten hurt and was unable to play in the BCS National Championship Game against Alabama.  What I didn’t know until looking into these details for today is Texas had gone undefeated that year, and were looking to complete their perfect season.  It didn’t happen.  Instead McCoy had to watch his team lose the game 37-21, in a contest he couldn’t play in, due to injury.  In the sideline interview after the game, you can see the disappointment in his voice and body language.  But I was so impacted when he threw in these words in the interview:

“I always give God the glory.  I never question why things happen the way they do.  God is in control of my life, and I know that if nothing else, I’m standing on the Rock.”

Colt McCoy pointing to the Lord those years ago helped me recently.  You see, I’ve been preparing this blog for several days now.  As I was ruminating in the details, I went to work, and while there, I misplaced something of importance; I had to work, I couldn’t stop and look for it.  Understand when I work customer service at Chick-fil-A, I need my mind to be focused.  Because, my intention is to shine for God in my eyes, smile, words, and attitude.  However, in that moment, I was having trouble focusing.  As I was praying, and giving the situation to God, Colt McCoy’s quote came to mind:

“If nothing else,” he had said, “I’m standing on the Rock.”  Even if I had lost this item forever, I would still be a child of God; I would simply deal with the fallout as it came.  Very soon after all this transpired, I found the item I had lost.  But the point is, Colt McCoy’s example of looking to God in the face of disappointment helped me.  May it be said of me that my example inspired others in their walk with God too.

God bless,

Kevin

Relishing the fragile gift of life

I’ll never forget when, in an epic crossover event, Kara Danvers (A.K.A. Supergirl; portrayed by Melissa Benoist) introduced Oliver Queen/Green Arrow (Steven Amell) and Barry Allen/The Flash (Grant Gustin) to her “super” cousin; this was their first look at Clark Kent, played by Tyler Hoechlin.  “I’m so excited you guys get to meet my cousin,” Kara said.  “This is that cousin?” Barry asked.  But they learned quickly that this man didn’t want the spotlight or the glory.  He simply replied, “Please.  Call me Clark.” 

Tyler’s Superman actually first appeared in season 2 of “Supergirl”.  Let me state this definitely for the record: while Melissa Benoist was great for 6 years as Supergirl, the actual show “Supergirl” itself had several problematic storylines that I don’t endorse or condone.  That said, for all its missteps, if it hadn’t existed, “Superman and Lois” (a spin-off of “Supergirl”) wouldn’t have either.  Incidentally, while I’m on the subject, I have now seen 7 of the 10 episodes from the 4th and final season of “Superman and Lois”.  It’s been fun and emotionally gripping, but that’s a whole other blog for another day.   

That particular crossover I began with – an event known as “Elseworlds” – went on to showcase just how talented Tyler Hoechlin is as an actor.  In part 3 of that saga, we see Tyler not only as the Superman we know and love, but also as an evil Superman.  It would be easy to get bogged down in the details of the plot; suffice to say, this story wasn’t the typical evil Superman story – which has been way overdone.  Anyway, once again, this showcased Tyler’s talent to play both the hero and the villain effectively.  Now, I’ve written all I have so far to get to this point; where I can describe the following scene.

After they defeated the corrupt Superman, Barry and Oliver had a drink in a bar to celebrate (even though Barry, as a speedster, can’t feel the effects of alcohol).  As per usual, Barry wanted to hug Oliver.  But Oliver, not the touchy-feely type, declines the hug and instead offers a toast.  “To appreciating what you have, however long you might have it.”

Oliver’s words in this toast come to my mind often, as I consider the trips through the valley of the shadow of death in my own life.  My health challenges in 2023 were a reminder to cherish every day for the gift it is.  Oliver hit the nail on the head: we don’t really know how long we will enjoy life.  The fact is, we are not promised tomorrow. 

I recently shared with you that my younger brother is about to turn 40; this is a gift to be celebrated.  At the same time, we are also coming up on the 9th Christmas without our father, Jerry Bauer.  No one would have predicted that he was about to pass away; he barely had caffeine, he ate right, he exercised; but he would soon enter his rewards in Heaven.  I often say you never know what a day will bring.  Therefore, let’s relish life, in all its fragility.

God bless,

Kevin

A "thrill of hope" this Christmas season

In the 1800’s a familiar song was written that start with these words: “O holy night!  The stars are brightly shining.  It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth.  Long lay the world in sin and error pining, ‘til He appeared and the soul felt its worth.  A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices.  For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.”  This, of course, is “O holy night” and it is one of my favorite Christmas songs, but I’m concerned that it has become so familiar that these lyrics lose their power and wonder. 

For all of its distractions, Christmas is about celebrating that holy night all those years ago, when a miraculous baby, the Lord Jesus, entered our world.  In fact, when it happened, a messenger from Heaven announced the news to a group of lowly shepherds.  “I bring you good news that will cause great joy to all people,” the angel said.  “Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).  “Long lay the world in sin and error pining, ‘til He appeared and the soul felt its worth,” says the beloved song.  In other words, the world had been immersed in bondage and sin; waiting and waiting for this Savior, this Messiah, to come.  And when He finally did come, as “O holy night” puts it: there was a “thrill of hope, [and] the weary world rejoice[d].” 

I think everyone wants to experience a “thrill of hope” but they don’t necessarily know where to look for it.  In Hosea 2:15, God speaks of “a door of hope”.  A whole blog should be written on this verse in context, and the beauty of what the Lord is saying; but for now, consider the imagery: God is saying there is “a door of hope”.  It’s not found in getting everything on our wish list this season, or having life line up just the way we wanted it.  Hope is found in person of the Lord Jesus Christ.  If I didn’t believe this with my whole being, not only would I never write something like this, but my entire life would look completely different.

When Jesus came, people misunderstood who He was, and what He came to do.  Jesus, if you’ll permit me to use superhero terminology, was – and is – the God-man.  No one else in human history was qualified to do what He did.  That is, to live for us, and then die on a cross, and rise again from the dead. Only He was perfect, sinless, and God in human flesh.  We are sinners, all; He is the Savior.  In Matthew 1, Joseph was told to give this special baby the name of Jesus because “he will save his people from their sin” (verse 21).  The name Jesus literally means “The Lord saves.” 

So what does one do with this?  Acts 3:19 puts it well: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”  My urgent prayer is through these words on a blog post, someone would turn to God in faith and trust for the very first time.  Or, maybe you’ve done this once upon a time, but you’ve drifted and you need to return to God.  I think any honest Christ-follower will admit that this can happen; I’ve certainly been there.  Don’t delay, turn back to God today.  The Bible says, “His mercies are new every morning.”  Come home.  This Christmas season can be an amazing “thrill of hope” because of Him.

God bless,

Kevin

The vapor of life

I wanted to publicly declare how grateful I am to be going through this Christmas season.  As I alluded to last time, I had health challenges in 2023 that actually put me in the emergency room for a few days.  It was an intense reminder to cherish each day for the gift that it is.  The fact of the matter is we are not guaranteed tomorrow.

Yesterday, I was reading from James 4; I came across verses 13 and 14 which states: “Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell and make a profit”; [verse 14] whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow.  For what is your life?  It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”  In my Bible, I once wrote this note: “this [James 4:14] was brought home in a very personal way when Dad passed away.”  This was the most intense example of this verse of all.  Furthermore, the older I get, the more I see just how spot-on the Bible is when it declares that life is a vapor that quickly vanishes away.  Not only am I in my 40’s, but somehow my younger brother is about to turn 40 himself!  The years have flown by quickly.

Rebecca St. James once declared, “I want to encourage everybody listening to really be radical for God.  And know that these days on Earth are short, they are numbered; let’s seize the day, let’s be radical for God.”  She was referencing Psalm 90:12, where the Psalmist prays to God, “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”  There was a time when I didn’t understand this verse, but now, because of the life events I’ve referenced, I get it.  Life can be stressful; this time of year with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be stressful.  I freely acknowledge that.  But, it’s still absolutely true that whenever we awaken to see another sunrise, it is an incredible gift.

I don’t want to waste my life.  Since it is so brief and fleeting, I want to invest it in things that matter.  I had heard this quote, but had to dig to find where it originated; it was Thomas Merton who once said, “People may spend their whole lives climbing the ladder of success only to find, once they reach the top, that the ladder is leaning against the wrong wall.” 

Can I say that writing this hasn’t been easy?  God showed me areas in my life that I’ve been climbing a ladder, and it was actually leaning against the wrong wall, as Merton said.  It’s humbling to admit, but it’s the truth.  Before I submitted this, I had to get on my knees and ask Him for forgiveness.  In 1998, the Christian singer Carman (who has been enjoying Heaven since his passing in 2021) put it this way in his song: “All in life”: “If I don’t glorify Your name, the things I do, I do in vain…Kingdoms come and kingdoms go, but through the Word of God I know when all in life is done and passed only what’s done for Christ will last.”

God bless,

Kevin