“The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.”
– 1 Peter 4:7-9
It’s interesting how our perspective changes when we can’t do the types of activities we are used to doing. Like many of you, I’ve gained a new appreciation for life’s simple pleasures over the past few months, and as things begin opening up again, I’m not taking anything for granted. Hannah and I have been in ministry together for fifteen years now, and something we’ve really come to look forward to is our date every Monday night. Since Sunday is typically our busiest day, we decided early on in our marriage that it’s important to carve out time for each other on a regular basis and just do something fun. In fact, this is a tradition that my grandparents started and I watched how it helped them through the years. Anyway, since our favorite activities on date night have been going out to eat, seeing a movie, or even taking a trip to Disneyland, the quarantine definitely cramped our style. In fact, as the weeks rolled on, we were longing more and more for a date. In typical creative fashion, Hannah came up with the idea of grabbing food and taking a trip to the church. When we got there, we put a blanket down in the front of the sanctuary, had a picnic, and watched a movie on the LED screen. In other words, we worked within the confines of our circumstances to find a special way to be together. Most importantly, we renewed our understanding that doing activities means nothing apart from the people you share them with. My friend, as we ease back into a few of life’s regularities, my encouragement is to not lose sight of the clarity and focus you’ve gained in this season of quiet. As your concerns have crystalized over the past few months and you’ve realized what is truly important, do everything you can to maintain a reasonable pace and keep loving people at the top of your list of priorities. Remember that the places and things that have been beckoning you to come back are only made special by the ones with whom you share them. By all means, responsibly enjoy what the world has to offer, but reserve the bulk of your time, focus, and affection for that which is near to the heart of Jesus — the precious souls He has given you to share life with! |
Prayer
Jesus, I ask for a heart that makes people my top priority; help me not to lose sight of what’s eternally important.
Reflection
What have you learned during quarantine about priorities?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
2 Responses
I continue to email you to please pray with me for my husband James Cleveland but I never hear back whether you are praying and I really would appreciate it if you would text me or email me back and the fact you’re praying for my husband James Cleveland who is losing his battle with alcoholism I believe that Heaven responds when enough people to pray according to the will of God as shown by Christ and the Holy Spirit God bless your ministry I am I have a participated financially in your ministry
Hi Deborah! Thanks for reaching out to us about your husband. We are standing in agreement with you that the chains of addiction are broken in his life, in Jesus’ Name. May the Holy Spirit comfort and give you wisdom as you navigate this tough time. Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers for us. God loves you and so do we!