I am not one for New Year’s resolutions, but there is something about the beginning of turning to a new calendar year that sparks both some reflecting backward as well as some hoping forward. It seems to be an appropriate season for taking a bit of a 30,000 foot view on things and for asking questions.
This goes against my natural tendency to rush through life, moving from one immediate need in front of me to the next. Thoughts spinning, trying to juggle the to-do lists for work, kids, doctors appointments, and taking care of the things at home. I don’t want to worry or feel anxious, but I often do.
And so I try to remember Jesus’ words to not worry about tomorrow; God knows our needs and calls us to strive first for the kingdom (Matthew 6:31-34). And I try to remember the words in the letter to the church in Philippi: do not worry about anything, but in everything pray (Philippians 4:6-7).
And so today I am hitting the brakes a bit. I am sitting with questions in a prayerful attitude to gain a better perspective on the reality of God with me here and now in this moment. Asking in hopes of seeing more clearly the work that God IS doing in and around me. Asking with the expectation of sensing a bit of where God might lead next.
These are some of the questions that I am sitting with. I would invite you to sit with them as well, or to ask some of your own.
- Where have I noticed Got at work in me?
Where have I noticed God at work in the ordinary world around me? - In what ways have I faithfully shared God’s love with others?
In what ways have I fallen short? - Is there anything pulling on my heartstrings?
Are there ideas or questions that keep coming up in conversation, in my reading or study?
Where might the Holy Spirit be nudging?
