Roll With the Punches

My son joined Show Choir this year.  I am absolutely proud of this boy and grin from ear to ear every time I watch the performance.  I pray he stands firm in the confidence displayed when stepping on that stage.  He does not think twice about opinions of other students.  He confidently states the truth:  Show Choir is fun, difficult and considered a “sport” just like any other organized competition between teams.  He proudly sings and dances.

The last performance brought a few “roll with the punches” moments.  I volunteered backstage to help with costume change.  My stomach churned in knots just watching the pressure these kids encounter prior to stepping on stage.  Everything done must fit into the time allotted.  This particular event provided 25 minutes the moment the stage crew steps over the ‘magic line’ until all equipment exits the stage at the end.  This may seem like a while, but with all that needs done, this time is very little.

After the stage was setup, the kids walked out perfectly.  Each stood in their position and smiled.  Time ticked and no music began the show.  Each stood in their position and smiled and smiled and smiled.  Come to find out, the judges waited for proper tools to begin the show.  Our team did fantastic with the delay and did not allow such to bring them down.  They followed this delay with a phenomenal performance.

Costume change went smoothly.  Solos projected without flaw.  Choreography occurred exactly as practiced.  Applause exploded as the kids bowed and exited stage left.  We were told to exit stage left as well with all the equipment.  But, the stage crew was told to exit stage right.  Therefore, some went left and some went right.  All confused, we finally gathered all equipment/props and exited stage left.  We maintained the time-frame of 25 minutes.  It all worked out for good!

Much learned and much to talk about on the drive home.  I did not view any other Show Choir that evening; but, I do stand strong in the opinion that our kids rocked the stage!  My son did not receive best performer; but, he will forever be best performer in my books.  He improved greatly since last performance.  He dances with greater comfort.  He sings louder.  He keeps the proper expression throughout the show.  He Rocks!

Life provides multiple performances.  Each presents countless “roll with the punches” moments.  We can prepare, practice and perform to our best ability; yet, still fall short.  We can have support and encouragement surrounding the moment; yet, still feel alone.

Prepare – dive into God’s Word daily!  Without proper equipment, we will never find strength to endure life.  The armor of God must be placed tightly against the flesh.

Practice – put into play His Word.  Apply it to every moment.  Speak Truth into every thought.  Think about such Truth before going out in the world and engaging in life.  Think through actions and put them up against Truth to assure the action is in alignment.

Perform – go at life with His Power exploding in you!  The Power within is greater than any moment faced in life.

Roll with the punches.  When life places time limits, do your very best with God guiding every step.  When life throws out a delay in the itinerary, use every opportunity to shine His Light onto all around.  When life says go left or right, stand firm with God and go straight!  Trust God, not this world.  Follow His Way, allow His Will and you will forever be best performer in His books!

You will fall short due to imperfection of flesh.  His Power shines through our imperfections.  His Grace covers all shortcomings.  His Love embraces you with every performance.  You are not alone!  He will work all out for good as you love, trust and hope in Him!

It’s MONDAY!  Are you ready to “roll with the punches”?  

Live life. . .One Day at a time!
Sheree Craig