Dr. Peter E. Roussakis is the pastor at the First Brethren Church in Burlington. From my observation there is some truth, though certainly not universal, that people have less desire to stick it out when challenged. Stick-to-it-ive-ness is not as widespread a virtue as in the days of my childhood.

One area I have noticed involves children, youth and music lessons. There are many, I am sure, who would like to play piano or saxophone but when it comes to practicing for excellence, well, they might rather watch a video or hangout with their friends.

Or take the worker who feels an injustice has been done to him and he responds, "I am not gong to take that. Bologna on him! I am out of here!" And then of course the angry person is out of work.

It seems too easy for some to avoid trying to deal with matters constructively. Perseverance, endurance, these are virtues which lead to accomplishment, achievement and a far-greater sense of meaning than anything which offers effortless, immediate gratification.

One of the Christian messages is that we encourage others to consider Jesus the 'leader' of our faith who went all the way to crucifixion for the sake of the salvation of all who would trust in Him and follow in His way. The writer of the New Testament book Hebrews urged, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, scorning its shame and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2.

Hanging in there in life is a good thing. Hanging in there with the spirit of Jesus enabling one to do so is available. He makes life now worth living; He gives the strength to cope in times of trial and He promises an eternal destiny with Him. Not a bad deal, don't you think?