One Thing

What is the one thing that I can do in order to draw closer to God, deeper in faith, more aware of the Spirit’s presence than I am at this moment? The one thing? But, we think, if I can do a little of a lot of things; if I try some of each of the familiar things: prayer, worship, service, leadership, teaching, learning, helping…that is, if I try a little of everything, maybe I will feel more “spiritual.” But, sometimes a little of everything ends up being nothing.

Ask yourself: how am I gifted to be in relationship with God? What is it about me that, when I do it or experience it, I feel closer to the reality of who I am. For me, it is a given that I have interests and skills, just like you. What if you narrowed your focus and identified that one skill-trait-interest-talent that is inherent in you…and let that be your doorway to the Sacred? A gardener loves to touch the earth…and finds a way to God. A writer feels something special when she creates something on the page…and finds a way to God. A painter, a person who actually enjoys organizing, cleaning, sewing, engaging neighbors, sending notes to friends, helping in the neighborhood, caring for someone…on and on it goes. The one thing we think most mundane may actually be the one thing! If you can identify that soul pleasure and offer it back to God as a gift, then you may have found the key that unlocks that stubborn door. Not to say that you give up the other avenues, only that you identify the one that brings you light and fulfillment. It is a profound moment when you realize that something as ordinary as feeding the birds or fixing a meal ushers you into the Presence of the Holy One.

Don’t make it too difficult. You hold the key. Grateful awareness will take you a long way toward the desire of your heart.