Some of the kids called it a swagger. I can't keep up with all of the lingo. All that I know is when Chipper Jones approaches the plate at a Braves' Game, a song blares, "All Aboard!" Fortunately, I have an ample supply of baseball buffs in my family. Apparently, many major league ball players have a theme song. The crowd cheers, the player is "psyched" and the bat is swung. There's nothing like hearing your favorite players' song fill the stadium.
What if I had my own theme song? I would have a hard time narrowing it down to one, so I'd probably have two or three. I have some friends who have become like sisters to me. When we get together, I'd play, "We are Family," by Sister Sledge. When it's time to leave, I'd play Carol Burnett's TV show sign-off, "I'm so glad that we had this time together."

Unfortunately, there is no DJ to play my songs as I enter a room. That might be good on days when I'm feeling a little tired or irritable. I've tried to become aware of how my presence affects those around me. This becomes a real concern when I notice the people around me becoming discouraged or anxious. Did I bring that attitude toward them? How can I help change the mood?

If I'm trying to follow Christ's challenge to preach the good news, I've got to remember that I'm challenged to show how Christ brings hope, strength and peace. My prayer is that God will teach me how to be more hopeful, peaceful and strong.

He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation." (Mark 16:15 NIV)