As a mom of four children, my mind rarely goes into “silent mode”. I take advantage of absolutely every possible moment to get stuff done. If I sit to play a game with my kids, I am often thinking of the next thing on the to-do list, and hurrying the game along to get back to work. My intention is never to make my children feel unimportant or make them feel as though I don’t enjoy being with them, but I also know that my to-do list grows by the day, so I can’t afford to let things pile up! However, the other day I had told my son it was time to shower, but before he got in, he came to me and asked for a hug. Before I reached to hug him, he added, “But hug me like you mean it. Don’t let go super-fast and tell me to go shower.” I felt like I got hit by a ton of bricks! Obviously, my rushing around is felt, and I was reminded that I clearly need to slow down. So these past few days, I have been intentionally paying attention to my actions. Am I slowing down to hear what my children are telling me, am I giving them eye contact, am I bringing value to our conversations? Most importantly, am I telling my children they are loved and important without verbally saying it?

The same thing can happen in our relationship with God. Our time with the Lord is often “drive-thru” style instead of “dine in”, and our prayers are often interrupted by other thoughts or distractions. Just like Martha, we get preoccupied with the busyness, and lose sight of the value of our time in the lives of those around us. But God is so good that he uses any and all circumstances to bring our attention back to Him and the things/people that are truly important. Let us choose to listen!

Suggested prayer: Dear God, please forgive me for all the times I don’t give you my undivided attention. I struggle to quiet my mind, and ask that you help me focus on what is important. The cares of this world come and go, but the influence I have in the lives of others, especially the children you have given me, will impact them… please help this be a positive impact that will bring them closer to you. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1.    Luke 10:41-42 (NLT).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.