Thinking With the End in Mind

Yesterday was my 37th birthday, and we had a fascinating conversation at my family birthday dinner.

You might think I’m crazy (my family sure did), but I kicked off the dinner by telling them I wanted to start this next year by filming a sermon for my funeral. 

I got the idea because my mom recently went to a funeral of a dear friend where they played a video of her singing, and I thought, “I can’t sing - but I do preach… maybe I could contribute a little something to my memorial service as well?” And the more I thought about it, the more I realized it might be an incredible way to start the following year with the end in mind. 

Because… how would I live this year if I knew it was my last?

How would I love my family if I was honoring as many moments as possible with them? What would it look like to not hold back, but bring everything I’ve got to the table?

And how sweet would it be to have a fresh video each year telling my people what they mean to me and encouraging them even though I’m gone? 

To be honest, my family was split on the idea. Most of them thought it was kind of morbid, especially to talk about a birthday dinner. But for me, the sentiment remains: 

I’m starting another year, and I don’t want to hold back. Instead, I want to make sure I’m using everything I can to honor God, bring Him glory, and serve the people He’s called me to. 

And if you’re in the same space, even if it’s not your birthday, I’ve got a gift for you: 

Twice a year, I coach women in a program called Go Teams. It’s for any woman who feels called to writing, podcasting/speaking, small business, or ministry - whether they’re just getting started or feeling a little bit stuck. Over the past few years, we’ve coached hundreds of women to take the next step in their calling, and this fall, we’re kicking off Go Teams again.

You and I - we’ve got this one life. We’ve got this one chance to use our God-given gifts to be a part of seeing the kingdom come on earth.

Will you join me in getting the equipping you need to start, keep going, or make the most of the calling you’ve been given?