Being There

But you, O LORD, be not far off; O my Strength, come quickly to help me.
—Psalms 22:19

Ever been alone in a crowd? People coming and going, busy chatting or working on something important, yet no one connects with you and there you are, all alone in a crowd.

It happens more than we might think as with text messaging, cell phones, iPods... we can be totally connected with those not present, yet miss the very person right in front of us!

Living History

The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, shouting, "Hosanna!" "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" "Blessed is the King of Israel!"
—John 12:12-13

What did you do this past weekend? The weather certainly invited outdoor activities, work around the home, and time with friends. Perhaps you took time for worship or an afternoon’s sports event.

One thing I did this weekend was to look back in the past and see what others did years ago. I find looking back really helps me get today in perspective and look forward to tomorrow.

Saying the Right Thing

Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!
—Proverbs 15:23 NLT

How many times have you thought to yourself after a conversation or meeting: "If only I had said this or that?"

How many times have you left a patient and thought of something you could have said that might have helped them understand a bit better, or clear up some questions or worries they had?

We often have moments that are begging for the right thing to be said. Sometimes that takes courage, other times it takes wisdom, but it always takes compassion to say whatever it is in the right spirit.

I am thankful for those who speak a fitting word at the right time and in the right place.

As Americans, when we say the Pledge of Allegiance, we remind ourselves and others of our values and beliefs as a nation; that we are "one nation under God with liberty and justice for all." What a humbling responsibility to live out these values each day in our lives.

No Room at the Other Inn!

To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."
—Mark 12:33

Ever found yourself having to be in three places at once? Have you ever had to call ahead to tell the kids you were running late? Ever missed an appointment because you were too preoccupied with the others of the day?

The clutter in our closets, supply drawers, or stock room pale in comparison to the clutter in our appointment book…you know that PDA (Personal Data Application) that rules your life!

For some reason as you find yourself seeking to be industrious, productive and helpful, only to find that the treadmill always goes faster and you are worn out just thinking of all you have scheduled to do!

Is that the best way to live out your day? Rushing hither and yon? Carl Jung said: "Busyness is not of the devil. It is the devil himself."

Keeping you so focused on what is the NEXT thing to do, that you are not able to consider, what is the IMPORTANT thing you to do. Considering the important thing too often happens too late in the game.