An Urgent, Monotonous Din

Sunlight poked through the trees and illuminated the lake and my garden. Bees buzzed around my orange flowers. Calmness enveloped me during my morning devotional time. A symphony of birds sang delightful melodies. 

            Then a bird hidden in a tree near my patio produced a loud noise. From across the lake, another bird answered with the same tone and rhythm. As soon as one finished, the other one repeated the urgent, monotonous din and disturbed my serenity. No longer could I enjoy the music of the songbirds. 

            The racket reminded me of the constant clamor on TV, radio and the Internet. People decide which ones to parrot and keep repeating what they hear. Back and forth they go. Louder and louder. Each side trying to overtake the opposing views while overtaking pleasant conversations and peaceful situations. 

            The continual blasting wears me out. I now only watch a small amount of the news and bypass much of what is posted online. 

            Instead of getting caught up in the battles, I try to focus on Jesus and follow His teachings. Love God and love others. 

            I can pray for our leaders from local to national whether I like them or not. Jesus loves them. I can pray for those in the media to speak the truth. I can pray that our country heals and comes together. I can pray for revival. 

            God answers prayers but not always the way I want or in the time I desire. I can’t personally reach everyone I pray for but God can. 

            As a Christian, my purpose is to show His love and glorify Him. Each day, I can look for opportunities to make a difference in someone’s life. Often it is something small that has a huge impact. 

            One thing I did today was to give a bottle of cold water to the young man mowing my lawn. We didn’t speak the same language but his smile told me thank you. 

            I wonder what opportunity I will have tomorrow? How about you?

And anyone who has given so much as a cup of cold water to one of the little ones, because he is My disciple, I tell you, that person will be well rewarded.

 (Matthew 10:42 KJV)

Loving Father, help me to ignore the conflicts and embrace your love. Open my eyes to opportunities each day. Amen