the gospel

ok. this isn't going to be as "eloquent" as the 2 quotes i just posted. but i'm trying to process some thoughts. i heard someone say once (it doesn't matter who or when) that we should "preach the gospel to ourselves everyday." this has new meaning all of a sudden.

i spend a lot of my time and energy on things i think are "good" and even have "eternal value" - like teaching my kids about God and His Word, serving others, giving of myself and the blessings He's given us, trying my best to be selfless, enjoying His Creation and enjoying His blessings. i was struck this week (i have no idea where it came from, other than His Spirit) that even though these "things" and "thoughts" are good...they are NOTHING compared to the Gospel.

the mere fact that God, sent HIS SON to EARTH to bridge the distance that MY SIN caused between me and Him...that He SUFFERED and DIED on a CROSS for ME and for those that i love (even those i don't love!) is just about too much to truly take in. i'm amazed how this truth can be real and alive time after time after time. what an AWESOME God!