WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING
Working quietly in the twilight, I considered my parents—sound asleep about fifteen feet away. An exterior wall and an unconscious world separated us.
Early Morning
Several years ago, my brother and I constructed a new handrail by our parent’s back porch.
With my father’s declining health and my mother as his full-time caregiver having a sturdy railing was crucial.
We formulated a plan, gathered tools and supplies, then showed up early evening to make magic happen.
My little daddy supervised construction from a folding chair on the porch. The ‘energizer bunny’ (my 90-year-old mother) weighed in on the process by collaborating with our father. My brother deftly handled the installation while I fetched, held, hammered, and helped.
The next day I arrived to putty the screw holes and hand sand ever so softly in the predawn light. My energetic momma planned to prime and paint the new railing later that day.
Working so close to where my parents were sleeping became a holy experience. Without warning, I was overwhelmed by a ballooning love for my parents.
Epiphany
A burgeoning lump formed in my tight throat as I drove home down the tree-lined street. The thought of God working wonders in our lives swelled in my heart.
Overcome by His kindness and our ‘mostly’ unconscious awareness of His constant loving care sent hot tears down my cheeks.
I sensed Him telling me the joy I had in doing this little project for my parents was what He does—constantly.
Once again, I was undone by who He is.
Humbled by His attentive care, constant faithfulness, and steadfast love, the tears rolled down as praise went up.
Living Wide Awake
LORD, thank You.
Thank You for all the ways You care for us, especially for the ways You move when we are entirely unaware—sound asleep to You and Your lavish grace.
Forgive us for being oblivious to Your movements but so quick to grumble or complain.
Give us eyes to see You, Your handiwork, and to recognize Your care.
We thank You for all the ways You provide for us, and protect us—Your love spilling over on everything.
Thank You for the beauty surrounding us, the wonder of each person, this day.
Lord, help us live wide awake to life in the Spirit. Do not let us slumber or doze off when You are actively unfolding Your plan in and around us.
As we go through this day may we keep one ear attuned—listening for Your voice. May our eyes be open, watching for You and whatever You may bring our way. May our hearts be ready to receive from Your fullness so our hands and feet can be used as You desire. And all of it for Your glory alone.
Thank You, Lord, that you allow us to participate in Your magnificent plans.
Amen and Amen
Having your spiritual radar up in constant anticipation of His presence—even in the midst of the joyful chaos and regular rhythms of your everyday living is paramount in hearing God, because sometimes the place and manner you find Him is the least spectacular you’d expect.
Priscilla Shirer
SALTY OATS offers a few other insights about living wide awake to life in the Spirit.
