Day 6 - Manic Monday

‘Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning.’

Psalm 30:5b

My Dad, had he lived, would have been 97 today. Sadly, he passed away in his early fifties, after succumbing to the excesses of life. However, despite his lifestyle, he did his best, as did my Mum, to bring me up properly by providing a loving home and instilling the wisdom of both manners and the difference between right and wrong. He also taught me to appreciate what we had, to take note of what was around us, and to live life in the here and now. He was an early proponent of mindfulness. His advice was to, “look at the trees and how they sway in the breeze, feel the warmth of sunshine on your face, hear the silence, or the hum of distant traffic, the hiss of cooking, bottles being smashed, and dew between your toes.” I have come to appreciate the wisdom of his words. Yes, I cried at his parting, but I rejoice in his wisdom and guidance.

But how does this help us on another Monday? Well, I remember a song from 1985. The song "Manic Monday" was written by Prince and performed by the musical group known as The Bangles. The chorus goes,

“It's just another manic Monday

Wish it were Sunday

'Cause that's my fun day

My I-don't-have-to-run day

It's just another manic Monday.”

Sunday should be our fun day when we retreat from the world and share fellowship together. We worship our Lord and bask in his forgiveness. That should be a day for rest and recovery, allowing us to approach Monday with renewed energy. But how mindful are we at observing the needs of others and responding to their needs? Perhaps, you sit down, avoiding your nemesis, and suffer the sermon, before listening to social chit-chat while making polite responses. But taking a mindful approach can lead you to enjoy the walk in the fresh or semi-fresh air and get your body moving, which we are told is good for us. If you drive, then try to park a little further away, and enjoy a stroll. And whilst attending church can be a trial, others will enjoy your presence and the fact you shared time with them. Look and see the joy on their faces. Finally, before leaving, share a few words with the person who took the service. You can even provide feedback on their performance. And if you still feel hard done by, think of those who work on Sundays who envy your time of worship.

So, how did Sunday prepare you for today? Was it your fun day, and are you recharged for the rest of the week?

Prayer

Father, thank you for yesterday’s time with my fellow believers. Thank you for providing a place to meet, someone to lead the service, folk to manage the church building, and Christian family to prove tea/coffee. Please help me to find rest and peace during the coming week. Amen

Michael Rolton