This past weekend I had the pleasure of having my two grandchildren stay with me. Everywhere I took them, when we got out of the car, I would tell them to STOP, LOOK and LISTEN. It was a mantra I had taught my own children, and I'm sure one you have taught yours.
This weekend was a busy and chaotic one for me. My son was graduating high school, my daughter was moving home from Nebraska, and I was throwing a graduation party. My grand-daughter started the weekend off with a 105 temperature. There were seven personalities sharing some cramped spaces in my home. Amidst the busyness and commotion, I felt God trying to get my attention....
STOP LOOK and LISTEN.
STOP. Everything does not have to go perfectly or be perfect. Stop moving and doing and be still. Stop and rock that baby. Stop and play cars with your grandson on the floor. They are small for only a short time. Stop and take in the amazing accomplishment your son made at graduation. Live in the moment. Relish the new adventure your son is going on. Stop and be present.
LOOK. Take the time to look around. See all these blessings I have given you. Enjoy watching your children as young adults, playing with their niece and nephew. Look into their eyes as they tell you a story. Memorize their faces, their smile, and their laugh. This moment won't last forever. Really see your graduating child and reflect on how grown up he is. There is a little boy turned Godly man. Look at how far he has come from that little boy learning to read, learning to get along with others, and learning to navigate the world.
LISTEN. Take the time to listen to each person. The people attending the graduation party are people I don't see very often. Listen, connect, hear their story.
As my weekend came to a close, I sat outside under the stars with my freshly bathed grandson. We watched the bats fly around, and counted the stars. The world was quiet and still. With many prompts and reminders, I had learned to STOP, LOOK and LISTEN. I had soaked up every moment I could have. I felt blessed and at peace. I had listened to my fathers instruction. I know God was smiling. "Well done my good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:21
STOP LOOK and LISTEN is not just something we teach our children. It is something that sometimes we have to re-learn ourselves. I encourage you to be present in the moments that make up your lives. Stop long enough to enjoy what is in front of you. See all that you have instead of thinking about what you do not have. Listen to God's still small voice directing your life.