Saturday, December 9
Isaiah 26:1-19 and 1 John 3:1-24
Distraction is a powerful thing. Even as I write this, I have switched tabs on my browser multiple times, checked my email, rearranged the things on my desk, and stopped to have a conversation with someone else. Particularly today in the fast-paced world of the twenty-first century, distractions are ever-present.
On the surface, distraction does not seem to have direct or dire consequences. It is even claimed that “multitasking” can be good for our personal satisfaction and professional productivity. Recently, I watched a documentary entitled Digital Nation, featuring a study of MIT students who attempted to complete more work by doing five or six tasks simultaneously. Like so many of us, they assumed multitasking was more efficient. Yet, the study proved they were slower and more distracted as they switched from one thing to another. Distraction exacts a real cost.
So, what does distraction mean for our spiritual well-being? The more we create patterns and opportunity for distraction in our lives, the less attention we have for what is truly important: being present with God. In Psalm 86:11, we read, Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.
An undivided heart is the opposite of distraction. Instead of endlessly seeking ways to fill our lives with shopping, social media, or community gossip, may we give our full attention to a life with God through the power of His Holy Spirit. Regardless of the distractions in your world, God is always with us. Are you allowing yourself to take time to be still with Him? This season, let yourself take an uncommon path that leads to an undivided heart for God. See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that is did not know him. I John 3:1.
I have decided to shut off my personal social media accounts during Advent to have more time to read scripture, pray, and be present with our Savior in mind, body, and spirit. What distractions will you choose to tune out this season?
ALEX RIEHLE
Admissions, CUW
About this series
“God With Us: the uncommon advent of our Savior” is a sampling of biblical meditations composed by members of the CUWAA community. It is our prayer that you will take time during the Advent season to read and reflect upon God’s Word and await the coming of Jesus with newfound enthusiasm and anticipation through the Holy Spirit.