Finishing Strong Part 2

Years back, former ambassador Richard Capen asked dozens of friends and acquaintances “If you knew you were going to die tomorrow, what two or three values or accomplishments would you want to be remembered for?” He shared their responses in his book, “Finish Strong.”  So following last Sunday’s message on the same theme, I share nuggets from this uplifting book.

Inner security and fulfillment comes by faith—not by wielding power in the town where power is king.  When I look back on my own journey of faith, I can see that real growth began when I started reading God’s Word as a young man. - James Baker (Secretary of State) 

Life is not just a few years to spend on self-indulgence and career advancement. It’s a responsibility, a privilege, a stewardship to be lived according to a much higher calling—God’s calling. This alone gives true meaning to life. -Elizabeth Dole, senator / cabinet secretary

Times of crisis, of decision, change or great joy [are] thresholds that we know God is present. So such times become moments of commitment, of consecration. They give us new life, added hope and a world of possibilities.   -Roberta Hestenes, Messiah College president

My personal philosophy is quite simple. I am responsible for me and must oversee with great sensitivity the impact of what I say and/or do on others. -Barbara Jordan,  congresswoman

The remarkable thing is that we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me, and 90% how I react to it. -Pastor Charles Swindoll

Everyone who has ever touched my life in some way was a mentor for good or bad. Life is a blend, and a person is a blend of all the influences that have touched their lives. -Colin Powell, former Secretary of State

My faith demands—this is not optional—that I do whatever I can, wherever I can, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have, to try to make a difference. -President Jimmy Carter

My dad’s goal: to live an ordinary life extraordinarily well.  My response:  Daily gratitude for our Lord’s purpose, mercy and generosity drive me to serve church and family and world with whatever I have to offer for as long as I can – my happy obligation and joy.            --What’s your way to a strong finish?   --Pastor Dick