Lessons from a 5-year-old

My usually observant son, Elijah, was distracted.  He is always the first to notice and comment on the night sky.  He always points out the moon and stars.  Not tonight.  Something else was on his mind. 

Elijah had disobeyed my husband, Chris, while at church.  He was told that he would be disciplined when we arrived home.  While we typically discipline when the incident occurs, the situation didn't allow for that.  He fretted the whole 5 minute drive home.  He was distracted.  When we got out of the car, I commented to him and Hannah on how beautiful the moon looked surrounded by clouds.  Hannah was instantly enthralled by the sight.  Elijah couldn't focus on the gorgeous site.  He had other things on his mind.

While looking at the beautiful evening sky, I glanced over at my concerned son.  He couldn't embrace the beauty because something else had his attention.  I was instantly reminded of how many times I miss something beautiful because of being distracted- perhaps by discipline, anxiety, or even day-to-day duties.  I want to embrace God's beauty, God's blessings and even God's discipline instead of being pulled away by something else that seems to demand concern.  When we begin to focus on God and the blessings he pours out on us, it becomes difficult to focus on our own issues.  That's my prayer.  Lord, please help me to concentrate and embrace your beauty, your love, your blessings and not be overcome by things that try to pull my attention away from You.