In a race everyone begins at the starting line. All runners bring to a race a great deal of behind-the- scenes work: grueling practices, injuries, disappointments, inspiration, family support, background, culture, values, beliefs, etc. Some of these things are apparent, and some of these things are made apparent during the race. Regardless, we all start at the beginning. The beginning, and to begin anything for the first time can be intimidating or even fearful. We already know the consequences of doing wrong for the first time. I am not addressing that aspect. I want to address beginning as it relates to our passions, callings, hobbies, or interests. When we are starting here, we have to silence all the voices that say not to start. Zechariah 4:10 NLT says, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin . . .” My start in art has followed this pattern, but what I realize is that faith accompanies everyone at the beginning of their start. As faith gets us to the starting line, faith propels us forward. Where you are looking as you begin, helps you finish in the end. Hebrews 12:1-2 NLT says, “Therefore since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. What is your heart that you desire to share with others to make their lives better or beautiful? Pray and ask God to show you where to begin and then start. Don’t judge how you start. Don’t judge your outcome. Don’t criticize yourself for where you start. Just pray and then start and repeat, repeat, repeat. Let’s begin.
