Laws of the Lighthouse

Laws of the Lighthouse
by Max Lucado

The first of the year is known for three things: black-eyed peas,
bowl games, and lists. Some don't eat black-eyed peas. Others hate
football. But everybody likes lists.

The Bible certainly has its share of lists. Moses brought one down
from the mountain.

There are lists of the gifts of the Spirit. Lists of good fruit and
bad. Lists of salutations and greetings. Even the disciples' boat got
into the action as it listed in the stormy Sea of Galilee. (If you
smiled at that, then I've got a list of puns you'd enjoy.)

But the greatest day of lists is still New Year's Day. And the number
one list is the list I call the Laws of the Lighthouse.

The Laws of the Lighthouse contain more than good ideas, personal
preferences, and honest opinions. They are God-given, time-tested
truths that define the way you should navigate your life. Observe
them and enjoy secure passage. Ignore them and crash against the
ragged rocks of reality.

Smart move. The wise captain shifts the direction of his craft
according to the signal of the lighthouse. A wise person does the
same.

Herewith, then, are the lights I look for and the signals I heed:

– Love God more than you fear hell.
– Once a week, let a child take you on a walk.
– Make major decisions in a cemetery.
– When no one is watching, live as if someone is.
– Succeed at home first.
– Don't spend tomorrow's money today.
– Pray twice as much as you fret.
– Listen twice as much as you speak.
– Only harbor a grudge when God does.
– Never outgrow your love of sunsets.
– Treat people like angels; you will meet some and help make some.
– `Tis wiser to err on the side of generosity than on the side of
scrutiny.
– God has forgiven you; you'd be wise to do the same.
– When you can't trace God's hand, trust his heart.
– Toot your own horn and the notes will be flat.
– Don't feel guilty for God's goodness.
– The book of life is lived in chapters, so know your page number.
– Never let the important be the victim of the trivial.
– Live your liturgy.

To sum it all up:
Approach life like a voyage on a schooner. Enjoy the view. Explore
the vessel. Make friends with the captain. Fish a little. And then
get off when you get home.