Having enjoyed a few days of solitude, I planned my return from North Wales to ensure I saw my wife before she left for work and met my coffee buddy at 9am. As I had a 3+hours drive, my start would be 4am. Yes, four in the morning. This might sound like ridiculous-o-clock, but I have an erratic sleep pattern, so sleeping early then waking at odd hours is not a problem.
I woke at 2.30am, buzzed around, cleaned and tidied up, before enjoying a shower. All was well until I opened the door and was greeted by a freezing blast. I know it was freezing because the car temperature gauge showed minus one. I packed quickly and sped away through the frosty night.
The journey was wonderful. I enjoyed a magical drive along the Dee Valley towards Llangollen. Although I saw just five moving cars on that 20-mile route, I spotted parked vehicles glistening from the reflection of streetlights on the frosted bodywork. This experience was enhanced by the recent 20mph speed limit in built-up areas. Everything seemed to happen in slow-motion. It was like flowing through a mystical world where I could even imagine dragons returning to bed before the night ended. The drive had an almost spiritual quality and will live long in my memory.
So often we take a trip - be it a walk, drive, or train journey - for granted but we can add so much more by being mindful of our surroundings and what is happening. It would have been so easy to view my drive as a chore and feel down about my break coming to an end. But, by opening my mind, heart, and senses, I was able to enjoy a special time. I am so thankful that I did.
Let us remember Proverbs 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Being cheerful and more mindful also helps to notice the needs of others and respond in a positive manner. In that way, we help to build up the body of Christ and draw unbelievers to salvation. After all, who would be attracted to a church which does not support each other?
Prayer
Father, help us to appreciate the simplest of tasks and not feel down about mundane and routine activities.
Help us to switch on our eight senses so we can fully appreciate everything around us.
Help us live to be alert to the need of others.
Help us to use our switched-on state to live a life worthy of being called a Christian.
Help us to lead souls to Christ.
Amen
Michael Rolton
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