God's plans for your life

By Ellen Shuck

"What do you intend to do today?" Do you view your jobs or pursuits as purposeful? A few weeks ago, the phrase, "God has a plan for my life," came to mind and I wondered what mine was.

As I pondered my life, what I was doing and what I planned to do, my thoughts gravitated toward what seemed to be my mission here on earth. "Gosh," I said to myself, "if I look upon what I do as part of a plan for my life, how awesome." It makes every small deed worthwhile. Every dish I wash or load into the dishwasher is meaningful. It is leading or building toward something else really important. I meditated further on the subject of what I thought my purpose has been thus far.

What do you think your purpose has been thus far? Your appraisal makes a difference in your attitude and perspective on what you do and how you perform. The thought that God has a plan for your life energizes you. Nothing seems too small or insignificant. Did Jesus achieve notable deeds to gain applause? No, he was here for a purpose, God's purpose.

Whether you're Christian or not, merely knowing your God has a purpose for you that no one else can accomplish causes you be enthusiastic. Those seemingly meaningless and boring chores become more purposeful and worthwhile. They assume a life all their own. A life that fits into the puzzle of an eternal plan.

One cannot stay on top of any mountain for long. You keep searching for something to make the day more fun, more amusing or self-fulfilling. Then once you discover that every day can be exciting and wonderful, you gain a spring in your step and your heart overflows with joy. Joy at the knowledge that you need never feel unfulfilled. Realize no one person is more important than another, and no one's job or vocation is more notable than that of another. It seems I have more admiration for those who perform jobs that are considered by society as unimportant.

A particular couple comes to mind, Jeanie and Jack. As I've written before, my mother turned our home into a rooming house and a home. My dad suffered a stroke just as I entered my freshman year of high school. Mom was forced into the workforce, washing dishes at a hospital kitchen. Ahhh, how fortunate she felt to have a job. She was proud, too, that she could help make ends meet by renting rooms. My dad, although crippled, tried to help by driving a cab.

Jack and Jeanie rented a room at our house for years. Jeanie worked in a local restaurant, washing dishes. Jeanie also was a victim of epilepsy and had seizures often. People sometimes made fun of the two. Jack did whatever he could and walked with a limp. They were the sweetest people you could ever find.

You would think they were a king and queen. They were almost always together, normally cheerful and caring. They accepted their challenges, knowing God had a plan. They didn't question their lot and gave what they could. They felt as if they were as good as anyone else, and they were. They were carrying out God's purpose for them, and that was reason enough to be fulfilled and glad.

Jack and Jeanie constantly found someone they knew to visit in the funeral home. They cared, but it also gave them a mission, a reason to feel needed and proud. Jeanie walked to work each day, but she never complained. The couple was somewhat mentally challenged, but they acted as if they were as normal as anyone else. Jeanie kept her appearance immaculate, and Jack bragged on her looks.

Although they had meager means, they seemed to feel important and happy with their life. They were also, adamantly, still in love. They knew God had a plan for their life.

What is your mission? Have you taken time to notice?