Closing the Tabs

We live in a world where multi-tasking is the norm, and if you are like me, we often find ourselves with multiple tabs open on our computer all at once. We’re constantly trying to do everything at one time, and this can often lead to distraction and a lack of focus. Just as I write this, I look up at my computer screen and wonder, what if I decided to close all my tabs and stay focused on what is right in front of me? How could this change my day and help get me get closer to Heaven?

The Bible encourages us to “seek first the kingdom of God,” and this means that we should prioritize our spiritual growth and nourish our souls. When we take the time to focus on just one task at a time and put God first, we can find greater peace and joy. That joy calms the overwhelming distractions of the world, helps us stay focused on what’s important and leads us closer to Heaven.

Mother Teresa is one of my most favorite saints and I will never forget this story. There was a couple that decided on a simple wedding and asked for monies in lieu of a fancy reception and gifts. They went to Calcutta and gave her all they had. After she humbly accepted their gift and heard their story, she told them they needed to go back home and love what was right in front of them. Go home and love the people God sends your way. Her message was crystal clear. Here is a beautiful soul that serves the poorest people in the world, and yet, she reminds us of the need to serve what is right in front of us. How many times do I get distracted, how many times do I lose sight of what is right in front of me and what if I took more time to stop and focus on what’s most important.

“Now there are a good many things which would not be worth bothering about if I were going to live only seventy years, but which I had better bother about very seriously if I am going to live forever.”—C.S. Lewis (Mere Christianity)

God never promised easy, but He did promise forever. It is Monday; my computer screen now has one tab open. I closed the tabs that don’t matter. I’m trying to spend more time in prayer, read the bible, get closer to God and those surrounding me. Finding joy in the simple things, being present in the moment helps keep me focusing on what’s important and getting closer to forever.

My prayer for you is that you embrace the beauty of the everyday. May you feel the love from those around you, and when you are with them, you are the only tab they have open. May you feel that joy, may you feel that forever and may you always know you are the only tab that matters to God.

Together in prayer. Hand in hand.