|
A Note from Rolfe
I know so many bloggers, speakers and authors are writing about the Christmas season. It is for this reason that I almost avoided writing this article - almost.
You see, I just published a book with J. Randy Forbes about having the courage to do what is needed to create change, escape disaster, and create a life that is worth living.
And I am now in the "thick" of finishing up another book about living out of the "Courage of Our Convictions." This soon to-be released book will challenge us to ask why we make the choices we make, inspire us to be as courageous as others who have stood by their convictions and wrought great victories, and provide hope that there is an answer to the fears and challenges we face. It is in that spirit that I write this Newsletter, to share a few of my convictions.
- Rolfe
The Gift
America is at a crossroads concerning what kind of nation we will be...What kind of nation will we leave our posterity? Will we return to the character and founding principles that made America unique or become "like all the other nations?" I vote we return to the very Source that exalts a nation - the Creator acknowledged by the signers of the Declaration of Independence. What better time to ask ourselves these questions, than during this Christmas season.
Even as I write "Christmas," I am aware of a culture that practices open hostility to the name from which it is derived. Society recoils at the thought of being "insensitive" or "offending" someone who does not share the celebration of the Christ, but gives no thought whatsoever to offending the Source of all of our blessings and the One who has provided the gifts we share. Consequently, private companies demand their employees to say, "Happy Holidays." Children can't sing Christmas carols in schools and communities have to restrict the placement of nativity scenes. Is the idea that a God could love His creation so much that he would bankrupt heaven to give the Gift of Life really that offensive? Even if one considers the Christmas story a myth, should not such sentiment be a desirable attribute to attain? I am afraid our prosperity and materialism has left the meaning of Christmas cold, lifeless and empty.
There was a time when Christmas gifts were simple and genuine. People gave oranges, figs, or apples... perhaps a new pair of shoes to replace the one pair you had worn out... maybe even a new coat... well, new to you anyway. It was a time when the gift giver's sacrifice was deeply appreciated; a time when the size or cost of the gift wasn't as significant as the expression of goodwill and love ... Why?
Because when we experience hardship, challenged at the very fiber of our being, we remember the value of relationship. And relationships are the most important thing in the universe! We again connect the ultimate relationship between man and his Creator, pondering once more the example of sacrifice the Giver gave through Christ. We re-connect with something greater than ourselves, realizing to get through this life well together, "peace on earth and good will toward men," needs to be sung at the top of our lungs. Christmas should be honored, and if not, at least given full accommodation in a country that claims to embrace diversity.
Many of us are experiencing tough and challenging times during this recession. But maybe, just maybe, this is one of those "gift in disguise" deals. If we choose to look up rather than in, and appreciate what we have, rather than mourn what we may have lost, we will rediscover the truth. Because, you see, happiness is not found in the "things" in our life, but in the "who's" of our life. God may be giving us the "gift" of adversity to set us free from those beliefs and assumptions that leave us discontent and miserable.
This Christmas, I want to encourage you to Run to the Roar. There truly is a "gift" in the struggle, in the adversity, and in those uphill climbs. Inside this "gift" you can find faith, character and gratitude... We just can't be afraid to open it.
Well, these are a few of my convictions. When you give yourself permission to speak your convictions, it's at once both liberating and frightening. Liberating, in the fact that you are being true to yourself, frightening in the fact that revealing such convictions may cost you. Regardless, though you may agree or disagree with me, I exhort you in the strongest terms to join with me and Run To The Roar by living out your convictions unapologetically.
No surprise here, I'm sure, as I close with this ...
MERRY CHRISTMAS to you and yours!
What's Going On With Rolfe?
- Excited about the release of Run to the Roar: A Fable of Choice, Courage and Hope , co-authored with Congressman Randy Forbes; working on an Audio Book for the Fable.
- Participated in two local events promoting the Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation. It is inspiring to see our national leaders committed to our country's founding values. Visit the website at www.findroom219.com
- Beginning the six month training program for Virginia Eye Consultants.
- Breaking into the sound waves on Itunes. Search and download my available podcasts for emerging leaders.
- Working with the management team at Freedom Automotive, helping equip them to truly be a "different kind of dealership."
- Writing an exciting sequel to follow up with the Fable about living out of the "Courage of Our Convictions"; due to be released early next year!
- Looking forward to Christmas memories with family and friends, and gearing up for the New Year and its resolutions.
|
|
|
Face Your Fears: Run to the Roar
Uncertainty, fear and insecurity abound. We are at a critical juncture, but there is truly only one question that begs to be answered: Will you react to this fear and uncertainty or will you respond?
Order Your Copy Now!
 Rolfe's
R a mblin gs
December 10, 200 9
It's Time to Choose...Our Silence is Deafening
December 4, 2009
An Issue of Motivation
November 27, 2009:
Click here
November 13, 2009
Who is Your Favorite Chef?
Run to the Roar
Rolfe encourages viewers to face their fears and inspires action in his timeless speech Run to the Roar.
Click here to watch.
Podcast from a Paraclete
par⋅a⋅clete [ par - uh -kleet] an advocate or encourager
Download Rolfe's dynamic teaching now available on his podcast channel. Listen to topics such as What in the World Are You Thinking? and Authentic Happiness.
"Pray. Process. Participate. Sacrifice."
Building a network of prayer, sustaining our godly leaders, and rebuilding America on the biblical and historical principles of faith and freedom. Have you found Room 219?
Click here to watch.
|
