Paying attention makes a difference.
I think about this while watering the brown, straggly plant in our front yard. The one that missed automatic sprinkler showers.
My failure to notice is part of the issue. Properly caring for plants is not my wheelhouse.
In the tropics, where I was raised? Plants grew green year round. Rain fell in abundance. And planting seeds for science projects yielded quick results. Green shoots before the week was out. Sometimes overnight.
This sad-looking specimen tells another story.
Greeting
I’m carefully aiming the stream from the watering can when a neighbor walks by.
I call out a greeting and she stops. Turns around.
“I didn’t say hello because sometimes people are praying while they water their yard.”
Interesting response. I smile. “I certainly do pray.” Thinking we will enter a conversation about prayer.
Missed my cue
But, no. She briefly talks about watering her yard. And the lack of spigots in the front.
Then waves. And walks on.
So I enter the house feeling like I missed my cue.
A chance to ask, “How may I pray for you today?”
Paying attention
Not paying attention leads to brown plants and missed opportunities.
Failing to notice simple openings. For spiritual conversations with our neighbors.
Keep me alert, Lord. Help me listen. As I pray for neighbors and greet them.
The watering continues.
Of the plant and me.
“And tell Archippus, ‘Pay attention to the ministry you have received in the Lord, so that you can accomplish it.’” Colossians 4:17
What about you?
Do you ever feel like you’re missing cues? What helps you pay attention to what the Lord places in front of you?
6 replies on “Paying attention”
Just this week, I had the chance to say to a young lady at church that Jesus speaks to us in love (not criticism) and encouraged her to hear His love and trust it. She’s newly married and making lots of adjustments and was being self-critical. It hurt my heart to hear it. I was so glad that I had the chance to (hopefully) encourage her.
Thankful you could encourage this young woman, sister.
So many time I look back and think, “Oh! I should have said something/something different!” I think we often miss the opportunities that come because we’re so focused on our own schedule or getting things done. I’m intrigued by what your neighbor said about prayer. Next time ask her. Love you
Agreed! Thanks for sharing, sis. Love you!
I once asked a 100-year-old resident at a senior living community what advice he would give to the younger generation. He responded without hesitation, “Pay attention to the things of God.”
What a wise man. Thanks for sharing!