Thursday, May 21, 2009

The Cross

"And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Luke 9:23


Ever think about what "The Cross" represents? For me, it's salvation. I'm reminded that my Savior died on a cross for my sins. It also reminds me of my new life in Christ. I'm forgiven! That doesn't mean I'm perfect.


We are all human...which means we have free will to make choices. Sometimes, the choices we make lead us to sin and further away from Christ. Separation from Christ is created when we choose to put our own selfish desires before Christ and we don't "take up our cross daily". Is this an easy task for a Christian? Absolutely not! There are things I struggle with daily. I find that my head often tells me one thing, but my thoughts are not always representative of what is in my heart. As Christians, we have to make decisions based on truth, not what "feels" right or "feels" good.

That's certainly contradictory to what society tells us. We live in a world that tells us any belief, political movement, or sexual orientation can be justified. Do what you will to make yourself "happy". That's what matters in life. If that is true, why do so many people live such miserable lives? It seems to me, they are empty. There is never enough money, big enough house, fast enough car, big enough flat screen, not enough toys...the list goes on and on. Personal fulfillment is not found in things. That race is like the one a mouse runs when he is after a piece of cheese. True happiness can only come from the father himself, Jesus Christ.

It all starts at the cross...that's where we find true love, peace, and happiness. It's where Christ comes into our hearts and the Holy Spirit convicts us and speaks to us daily.

My whole purpose in starting this blog was to stay accountable to Christ and try to live for him daily. Over the past few months, I have failed miserably. My quiet time is shorter, my time in the God's word is limited, and my daily walk is questionable at times. It's in times like these that I'm easily agitated, aggravated, and not so fun to be around. As I think about the cross, I'm reminded that that's where I belong...on bended knee, humbled by grace, and in awe of Jesus Christ.

Lord, you know my heart and all my convictions. Create in me a heart that is pure to be led solely by you and for you. I know you have created me for a purpose and to do great things for you. Help me to remember that daily and to walk as if you are right beside me. Challenge me to be better than I am right now and to remember that your blood was shed for me that day on Calvary. Forgive me, guide me, and continue to love me with all my imperfections. In your name I pray, Amen.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Love One Another

"...Love your Neighbor as you love yourself." Matthew 22:39


Each year, my office, Myers Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, takes the time to give back to the community and help others in need. During the month of February, we participate in a campaign called "Give Kids A Smile". We provide free dental services to families who can't afford to bring their children to the dentist. We provide cleanings, extract teeth that are causing pain, protect adult molars with sealants, and fill small cavities for children between the ages of five and thirteen.


This year, the event will be held on Friday, February 6th from 8-5. To help us make this event a success, we are asking that people in the community nominate families who need to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. Nominated families who wish to participate in GKAS can contact me at (904)505-2010 (work) or (904)307-5689 (cell) to schedule a financial and dental screening prior to January 29th. We will assess the dental needs of the child and schedule them an appointed time to return on February 6th. The screening process will help to ensure that all children will get the most comprehensive care possible.


Please help us give kids a reason to smile!


On a personal note, preparing for this event reminds me why I love my job so much. I am so very blessed to work for two Christian men who love to give of their time and expertise to those in need. I also work with a wonderful staff who give of themselves daily to ensure families are welcomed, cared for, and educated in dentistry on a daily basis. We have an incredible team who love and treat others as they would want to be treated. I am honored and blessed to be part of an office that provides caring services from the heart, not just one time a year, but each day that we are open. I love you guys!!!!