Is our life really that bad?

I was watching Extreme Home Makeover last night.  Yes, I am finder that I have a soft spot for most of those families and love the way ABC has stepped up and helping those in need.  Well, last night was really touching for me, and gave me a lot to think about.

It was about a marine about 30.  He went to Iraq and serve his time and came home, safe and sound.  He had four kids and a wife and it was hard.  (They live in Kansas)  Then he was asked to serve another assignment in Iraq, and he willingly went.  They were driving down a road in a convoy, and the Humvee he was in struck a tank mine.  He told everyone to get out.  He worried more about there safety.  Then he realized that he had scrap metal in him and that his pants were bloody.  One of his guys got him out, while another grabs his leg.  (sorry if this is graphic, but I want to relate his story and why this touched me and why I am all chocked up right now.)  They got him into the helicopter.  He literally bleed to death, and died 2 times in route to the hospital.  They brought him back, and were able to save him (only by God's grace- for I don't believe God was done with him). 

He had a hard time, but even in all he was going through, and all of the therapy, he still went around and encouraged others in there, who were going through the same thing.  27 days later he was able to walk and get around, so that he could really bless others, by encouraging them and giving them hope.

His wife ended up leaving him and their 4 kids.  He lived in a run down homes, in deplorable conditions.  And in all of that, he was as good a dad as possible, still encouraged others, and said he would go through it all again, for his family, his marines, and his country.  He believes in fighting for our countries freedom.  He was willing to give his all for people he didn't even know.  He is a true American Hero.  There are many others like Him.  God Bless them and their families.

Christ is humankind's hero.  He gave up everything in heaven to come here, to be ridiculed, beaten, imprisoned, stabbed, nailed to a cross, and even poured his life blood our for us all.  He gave us his all to bring us home to His and our Father. 

Another story comes to mind, and you can look him up online.  It is about David Ring, a preacher who was born with cerebral palsy.  His is an amazing story and one that will really make us wonder, "Is my life really that bad?  What am I complaining about?  What is really more important than serving God, our family, and others?  Why can't I do more?  What can't I share more? Why?  Why? Why?" 

For almost 42 years, even when I thought I was "right with God," it was still all about me and my needs, and why I couldn't step out and do more.  God didn't make us to be like this.  God wants us to be here to help one another and lead others to Christ.  It isn't about the here and now, but more importantly about all eternity and living in His presence now and forever.  May God bless us all and keep us.  May we always be looking for opportunities to help others and share Christ, God's grace, mercy, and His love.