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Success magazine did a cover story in 2009 on Michael J. Fox.  In a section of the article titled  ‘Opportunity in adversity’ he said that he has “made the most of the head start one gains from being underestimated.”   I love that.  Absolutely powerful.

There was an elder in the church who once told me  (in a scene worthy of an Emmy-Award-winning daytime drama)  that she prays for me.  “And do you know why I pray for you, Stacey?  Because I ALWAYS pray for the underdog.”  What on earth do you say to something like that?  Gee, thanks?

No matter how much we love, admire, or look up to someone, we cannot let them define who we are.  One of the most powerful things I have ever heard someone say is that if you let others define you, you will forever have to live within the limits of their definition.  I think that is also what Michael J. Fox was saying.

The story of Mephibosheth is a story about shame and restoration. The name Mephibosheth literally means ‘destroying shame’.  When I first came to this church, one of the very first things I heard the pastor say was “if the enemy can get you in the area of shame, it will be impossible for you to walk in faith.”   This is so true.  And like Mephibosheth, many of us will go through life and enter Heaven with a limp.  But in the end, God has promised  that he has prepared in advance a place for us at His table.

“And David said unto him, Fear not:  for I will surely show thee kindness for Jonathan thy father’s sake, and will restore to thee all the land of Saul thy father;  and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually.”  2 Samuel 9:7