Most of us write to-do lists, daily lists of chores, appointments, business or personal projects, people to call, medicine to take. Usually the day is interrupted or we get sidetracked and the list isn’t completed. Some things, meds to take, a trip to the bank or doctor, etc. get first priority and are accomplished, others are put off or permanently discarded. Too busy to call a friend—or she can’t be reached. Can’t read the Bible right now, the repair man’s due or the cat needs to go to the vet. So we choose, prioritize, move items up or down according to situations, time, likes, dislikes.
Last week Pastor Ken asked us to put faith first. So, do I write God at the top of a to-do list? That doesn’t seem to work, you know, scheduling God, as if He’s a chore, or something to get out of the way so I can go on to the next “thing” on my list. In the past, I’ve listed Bible study or a devotion and then rushed through it at the end of the day, when I was sleepy and my energy depleted. Not good.
I can’t “tack” God onto a list, or squeeze Him into my day as though He’s an appointment I’d rather avoid. This God, who as a Christian I claim to love, should be my all and all, not part of, but the source and essence of every thought, and every deed—waking or sleeping. He isn’t. Yet. But I’m working on it and so when I write my to-do list, I also pray it.
Lord, send me your Spirit of truth as I write the Pop Corner, instill gratitude and generosity in my heart when I check my pantry and order groceries. Smile with me as I talk to friends and acquaintances and restrain my tongue from complaining and gossip. Raise my eyes from this screen to praise you for a sunny day, keep me from cynicism as I listen to the news and help me to offer sincere prayers for all who serve in politics. Grant me wisdom and a sense of playfulness when I mind the children tonight. Lord open me to change. Keep me from rigid thinking and outdated opinions. Help me to live attentively in the moment and bless me with a sense of your Will and presence. Remind me to listen. This list, this tiny scrap of my life is yours Lord. May it be pleasing to you. Amen.
