Marriner Moments: Resurgence – Part 3

By Pastor Melvin O. Marriner
Grove Church

“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
 – Philippians 3:14

At Grove Church, we have declared 2016 the year of REsurgence: pressing toward the mark. As we step into this New Year, now might be a good time to dust off some of the dreams and aspirations that we have buried, locked away or placed on the back burner.

While most people believe that the two most important days in their lives are the day they are born and they day they die, I beg to differ. I believe that the two most important days in life are the day we are born and the day we find out why! While each moment, each day and each month, provides us with chances for do-overs, life is fragile and we must not take it for granted. I encourage you to RE-assess your life and figure out your purpose, or where your passion lies, then get up and go for it!

Let’s move to toward a higher calling in this year of REsurgence, recognizing that we can accomplish more, when we engage with and support each other. Each of us is a part of something bigger – be it our church family, employer, biological family or neighborhood. We are not in this thing called ‘life’ alone. Take some time to identify individuals who are willing to co-labor or join with you in your efforts. Recruiting cohorts is not rocket science; it’s simply believing that there are others – like you – who want to make meaningful contributions to the Kingdom by changing the lives of others.

As we usher in 2016, I invite you to RE-examine your purpose. Perhaps you once had dreams or goals that you’ve given up on. I challenge you to REthink them, knowing that just because your plans were detoured or delayed, does not mean they have been denied. Press toward the mark – whatever your mark is – with determination and zeal!
Peace and power,

© Dr. Melvin O. Marriner, January 2016

We invite you to join us at Grove Church, 5910 West Norfolk Road, Portsmouth, Virginia, Sundays at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays at noon and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.