In His Presence

I mentioned this in passing in church this last Sunday, but it's worth repeating and thinking about...

“One way to recollect the mind easily in the time of prayer, and preserve it more in tranquility, is not to let it wander too far at other times. You should keep it strictly in the presence of God; and being accustomed to think of Him often, you will find it easy to keep your mind calm in the time of prayer, or at least to recall it from its wanderings.” (Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God)

A wandering mind is so easy. But a mind continually connecting with the Lord... Wow. I was sitting in my office today, lost in thoughts about upcoming tasks. Then I heard a bird singing outside my window. I looked and noticed the trees blooming — redbuds and dogwoods exploding in pink and white. Then I smelled the faint scent of blossoms on the breeze. And I just sat there remembering that God is... everywhere. And he is beautiful and gentle and refreshing.