A "Dream" Job

For the past few weeks, I've had the chance to live every little boy's dream. What started as a half-hearted video audition on YouTube has turned in to a once in a lifetime opportunity to be the public address announcer for the Chicago Cubs. Right now, there are four finalists - and I'm one of them.

I've been to Wrigley Field twice in the last ten days, each time sitting behind the microphone in the press box and announcing fake starting lineups to 40,000 empty seats. Empty or not, the experiences have been nothing short of amazing. Walking where the infamous Harry Caray walked...sitting where the legendary Wayne Messmer sat...looking at a field that Babe Ruth played on...it's surreal. I even met Ernie Banks yesterday!

Everyone (especially in the media) is calling this a "dream job"...and it is. Honestly, what could be better than watching baseball every day for a living? But the thing about dreams is that they often leave out a healthy dose of reality. Dreams tend to forget about the immutable laws of the universe.

Maybe you're chasing a dream too. Maybe it's a job or a hobby or an experience. I don't know what your dream is...but I do know what a dream isn't.

A dream isn't a dream if it causes your marriage to fall apart.

A dream isn't a dream if your kids rarely see you.

A dream isn't a dream if you're too exhausted to enjoy it's benefits.

A dream isn't a dream if money or fame or influence is the only upside.

A dream isn't a dream if it distracts you from the calling that God has truly put on your life.

Personally, I'm trying hard to think rationally and not be blinded by the bright lights and big names at Wrigley...but it's hard. As a friend of mine said recently, "I'm too biased to pray for you right now." (Something tells me he wants free tickets.) But, regardless, I've been challenging myself to honestly think and pray through what my "dream" really looks like. And I'd encourage you to do the same.

Jeremiah 29:11 says this: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." God has big plans for you and me. And, my hope is that we're walking close enough with Him that our dreams and His plans line up.