Quality Time
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? Psalm 42:2
The highways leading from Savannah to my grandparents’ home in Pavo, Georgia seemed endless and much the same. In those days, the main entertainment available to us kids was looking out the window or trying to entertain each other. The window was easier for us. I’m not sure what we were hoping for as we scoured the landscape, but what we saw were lots of pastures. To pass the time and to keep us out of trouble, someone taught us an odd game called “Cows and Graveyards”. This game involves opposing sides of the car counting cows, but then losing them if your side passes by a graveyard. It’s a memory we still shake our heads and laugh about. Now that I’m older and especially since some of my family members have gone on to Heaven, I often wish I could get that time back. I don’t think I would look out the car window as much. I’d probably still play that game, but I’d spend much more time connecting with my family. Our relationships deserve and benefit from quality time.
As we observe Lent and make a journey towards Easter, be mindful every day of what it is you’re hoping for. The goal of giving something up like chocolate or soda has merit if we use that extra energy to quench our thirst for God. Six weeks can seem like a long road to travel and there are plenty of distractions and temptations along the way. Making room for quality time with God fills our Lenten walk with holy help. Seconds, minutes and hours slip away as we scroll through windows, channels or games. Use this time to bring your life, your hope and your relationships to the Lord. This journey can be the difference between daydreaming about change and actually changing. God loves us and desires to spend time with us. We are better equipped to face uncertainty and challenge and temptation when we connect with our mighty God. Listen for his voice as you pray, read scripture, study and serve. Take every opportunity to spend quality time with God.