How are you today?
It’s an innocent question intended to say, “I care about you,” but these days it seems to carry much more weight – even more sincerity. In the wake of the past year, we’ve learned to pause a little longer, look the person in the eyes, and actually wait for an answer. We’ve learned that we shouldn’t expect the obligatory, “I’m great! How are you?” because that person might not be great, and this might be the first time they’ve had to courage to say so. We’ve learned to an even greater degree that we are designed for human interaction and that takes time – it requires us to slow down.
So, how are you today?
Have you had a chance to listen to the wind through the trees lately? Have you recently traced the shape of your child’s face as they fall asleep in your arms? Have you been able to have a heart-to-heart with a friend over coffee? When was the last time you got lost in a movie with someone you love? Or danced in the rain? Or tried to skip rocks across a pond? Or laid in the grass watching the clouds drift by? What number did you get to the last time you tried to count the stars in the sky? When was the last time you marveled at the wonder of God?
Do you not know that you are God’s temple
and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?
1 Corinthians 3:16
You, my friend, are designed for pausing – breathing – waiting – resting – refreshing. Our loving Father intends for this to be a regular part of our life rhythms; regularly caring for the temple He has entrusted to us. So now that we are officially in summer, it is a great time for us to pause and reevaluate our pace. Let me encourage you to plan now for some rest. Take advantage of the summer season and pencil in a tall glass of lemonade, some time on the back deck, or running through the sprinklers with your kids. I think you’ll find yourself refreshed as you take time to let the Lord whisper…
You are adored.
You Are Adored 