An interesting insight from the great C.S. Lewis: The moment you wake up each morning, all your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists in shoving it all back, in listening to that other voice, taking that other point of view, letting that other, larger, stronger, quieter life come flowing in.
That's why Treasuring God's Word is so important. Let's face it, everyone lives fast paced lives. We all have deadlines to meet and goals to reach. 5, 10 or 100 people are depending on us. That brings stress and pressure to bear down on us.
But even the best sprinter doesn't start out by arriving at the stadium, ripping off the sweats, setting up in the blocks and then running as fast as possible down the track. No, the sprinter warms up first. There are a variety stretching exercises. There's some light jogging around the track. There's that moment just before the race when the sprinter stops, gives thought to what is about to happen, gets mentally ready to compete and only then, after all of that, is the runner ready to race.
You and I need that same morning preparation. Don't jump out of bed and start sprinting through your day. Warm up by remembering your baptism. Make the sign of the cross and be comforted that you were baptized in the name of the Triune God - the God who made you, redeemed you and called you to faith. Stretch yourself by spending time reading and Treasuring God's Word. Listen to that "other voice," the One that has given you new life. Journal the insights you discover or record the Word that God speaks to you, a Word you can carry with you throughout the day. Don't be in a hurry - you're still not ready to race! Then take time to pray, asking the Lord for His help with the challenges and opportunities you will face that day. Pray for others as well. Give thanks for all the blessings you will receive from the gracious hand of God. Then, head out the door, confident that the Lord is with you always. That's His firm promise (Matthew 28:20).
God's best to you on this good morning!
