A Mulligan

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A mulligan is my favorite part of golf. A mulligan is a chance to do-over a shot that went wrong. Needless to say, I need this often. As much as I enjoy golf, it often has moments that are filled with frustration, trees, and the rough. Having a beautiful shot land right up on the green is a rarity for me. I’ve been known to incorporate the foot wedge and flat-out declare a round as a do-over round. Although, I rarely have to yell out, “Fore.” I generally can’t hit it that far. 

A mulligan or a do-over is something that applies to life, as well. I know there have been several times in my life when I just wanted to start over. When I first started attending my current church, I was a tired, burned out former youth director. I wasn’t sure if I would ever do ministry again and needed a safe place to start over. I needed a mulligan. Little did I know that God had refuge and so much more in store for me.

28-30 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29 (MSG).

This scripture describes that situation perfectly for me. I was tired and worn out. I kept leaning on Him and my new church family and began to feel safe again. My enthusiasm for ministry returned. I even prayed at one point and told God that this was the only church I felt safe in, so if He wanted me back in ministry, it would have to at my new home church. I spent 8 years in ministry there. It’s still my church home.

The first thing we need to do in a mulligan, is acknowledge it. I had to decide to stop being hurt and angry and take it to Jesus. In doing so, God was able to work in my life in many unexpected ways. There are countless stories in the Bible of people needing a do-over probably because we all are going to need a do-over at one point or another. It’s the gift of grace, and it’s not a one time only gift. Grace is a free gift offered every time we need it. God’s love is that big. He desires to spend time with us that much. It overwhelms me. It humbles me. It reminds me that He takes care of everything if we let Him.

Are you in need of a mulligan? Is it time for a do-over? Take it to Him. Get away with Him and you will recover your life. His promise is true and it is for you.

How has God led you through a do-over? Share below and we can encourage each other.

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