Save The Date

For the past 14 months, I have succeeded in spending time every week conveying my spiritual thoughts through writing on this platform. For the most part, I think it’s been a great way to spend time with God, while recounting things I’ve seen, experienced, and learned.

These forays into the mind that directs the fingers have also been a source of forced self-reflection.  Behaviors, reactions, and internal self-talk are examined.  Laser pointed beams reveal shortcomings while I struggle to live (well lean towards is a better description) a Christ-like life.

But as of late, it seems I’m becoming a bit overloaded with my own advice. It might well be that my current work-life is oppressive.  Maybe some of this is generated because this season of the year creates long stretches where making the trip back home is impossible.  Perhaps there’s some exhaustion playing around the corners of daily life.

Perceptions and Unity

Waiting in a stop-light queue, I was almost home.  The line was long and it would be a couple of light changes before I’d reach the intersection where I’d be turning.

The car in front of me edged slowly forward and I noticed the rear license plate.

This common delay suddenly became nearly unbearable.  I was trapped in the middle of the line and thoughts became defensive while reading, ‘Do you follow Jesus this close?’ (All CAPS, of course)

Beneath the Surface; Dare to See

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.    2 Corinthians 4:18           

I subscribe to more inbox interruptions than any one person should.  I have a tendency to sign-up as I come across teachers of motivation, marketing, spirituality, leadership, and self-help.  And then the constant daily devotionals, breaking news, severe weather notices and well, it's way too much.

Midweek Moments; Google has something to say

Pulling into the parking lot, I see my neighbors are just leaving. One lady is in the car and I wave; she waves back.  Her daughter and grand-child are locking the front door before walking to their car.

The grand-daughter smiles and waves and again, I wave back.  Her mom says, “Hi, how are you?” Since my workday is done, I am happy to respond that I’m good, and ask the same question of her.

Her reply is affirmative and I’m now unlocking my front door.

As I do, I hear my phone talking to me. It’s Google.  She’s telling me, “Thanks, I appreciate that.”

Maps & Territories

You may be familiar with the following axiom:

Your Map is Not the Territory

These few words let us know that our frame of reference is unique to us.  We are encouraged to consider that others have a much different perspective based on their own situations, experiences, and cultures.  We are reminded that the bubble in which we find ourselves (or place ourselves) reflects our individual experience which is not universally shared.

But we forget.

Instead, we surround ourselves with like-minded people.  Our friendships, social-media cliques, news outlets, and even our churches become comfortable and secure with those who reinforce our ideas - just the way we like it.