Focused

Never envy the Wicked! Soon they fade away like grass and disappear. trust in the Lord instead. Be kind and good to others; then you will live safely here in the land and prosper, feeding in safety.

Be delighted with the Lord. Then he will give you all your heart's desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him to help you do it and he will. Your innocence will be clear to everyone. He will vindicate you with the blazing light of justice shining down as from the noonday sun. Psalms 37: 1-6 (TLB)

Seek first [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Juan Carlos Gomez lives in Bogota, Colombia. Even though he lives in a 16-story building in the middle of a big city, there are nearby areas with big trees where birds nest and sing, offering a lovely symphony every morning. As the day continues, however, the crescendo of the city noise makes it difficult to hear the birds singing.

One day, during Juan's morning prayer time, he realized that listening to the birds singing was good practice for listening to God's voice. He decided then to focus on the sweet singing and block out the routine morning noises of the city. This, he thought, is how we are invited to seek and focus on God in the midst of daily distractions. This focus - our full attention centered on God - is what allows us to draw closer to God, unimpeded by obstacles around us.

In an anxiety-filled world, intentional study of scripture strengthens our connection with God. Remaining focused on God's voice and presence will prompt us to seek first God's kingdom and righteousness and allow us to rest on God's promises.

Prayer: Creator God, help us to remain focused on your grace, goodness, and the sights and sounds of your presence around us as we seek to serve your kingdom on earth, in Jesus' name. Amen.