Distraction

I’m joining in the Five Minute Friday link-up to write about distraction. We’re in a pandemic, so the topic seems timely.

A tone.

A little chime.

Another notification.

How can I focus with another distraction?

Sometimes it’s worth it; a call or text from a far away family member or close friend, a question from one of my sons, my husband wanting a hug. And I fail at this too, when I don’t stop and appreciate their importance.

But most of the distractions I face every day are not high priority.

They are either unimportant overall, or just not the one thing I need to focus on in the moment. My tired mind and sensitive heart are constantly and too easily pulled away.

But when I stop…

When I take the time to slow down and be in the moment,

when I look into your eyes and really listen,

or determine that the task in front of me rightly requires all of my attention for now,

…then I am truly present.

I may actually finish my good work.

I may accomplish not for the sake of accomplishment itself, but because what I’m doing matters.

I may be able to do my next right thing in love.

Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people…

Colossians 3:23 CSB