Just one month ago I told the story about my brief conversation with a young veteran…how any discipline is better than no discipline…that change only comes with discipline, action, and time.

Today we meet for our fourth week of Daniel Plan, and the focus is…focus.  I can’t help but go back to the equation with which I began the year.  The outcome we desire is “change”.  Yes, many in the Plan have specifics; weight loss, lowered blood pressure, stronger core.  The common thread is that we all desire change.  And we know that change from long-standing habits does not come quickly or easily.

So keep your eye on the prize…which is change.  And if in doubt, pick one of the variables to work on today.  Or now.  Right now.  Have you scheduled a session of joyful movement?  Have you left yourself enough time to shop?  Create a balanced meal?  Have you chosen a discipline to work today?  Any, all of these will bring you closer to your goal of change.  All of these will bring you closer to peace, closer to loving yourself and your capabilities.  (Wait, maybe that’s the prize?)

As I climbed stairs at the BofA building last evening I began by merely marking the workout, counting the flights, monitoring my heart rate.  My friend quickly “appeared” in the stairwell.  My mind was quickly reminded, renewed; I climb in his memory.     With his companionship my workout lasted 15 minutes more than I had planned.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship.  Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing, and perfect will. (Romans 12:1-2)

And she’s climbing the stairway…to heaven.