Living in the Moment

We live in a world that bombards us with expectations. When we are not depressed about the past failures we are worrying about the future. Perhaps those living with Alzheimer’s have a gift we need to examine closely. They cannot remember the past and no longer have the ability to speculate about the future. This leaves them with living in the moment. We can learn to live in the moment with God and with others. This takes turning off the distractions and focusing on what matters the most.

Jesus himself pointed out to Martha when she complained about having to carry the whole work load, that Mary who chose to sit at His feet had chosen the better way. As caregivers we carry the whole load sometimes. The stress and demands zap most of our physical, emotional and spirituals resources. The precious moments we can grab to refuel at the feet of Jesus are vital.

When we carve out those few moments to connect with God we are better equipped to connect with those we care for. God can inspire us with ideas to touch on the emotional memories in those who seem to have forgotten details and events.

One evening when my mother was moaning and distressed I prayed for a way to calm her. I remembered the story she told about me carrying around the book Henny Penny and wanted someone to read it all the time. I googled the story of Henny Penny and began reading it to her. Within seconds a calm settled over her. The tension in her face relaxed and all was peaceful. I continued to read children’s stories for 2 hours that evening. I know that the feelings of love she had as she held me when I was a child were replaying in her mind that evening. We were both living in the moment. During those two hours the rest of the world was forgotten and we were bathed in an incredible peace.

On the drive home I praised God for that connection and for guiding me with the idea.

Take time to live in the moment with God and with others.

Word for Today

 Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble,
    and he brought them out of their distress.
He stilled the storm to a whisper;
    the waves of the sea were hushed.
They were glad when it grew calm,
    and he guided them to their desired haven.

Psalm 107:28-30

Song for Today

Prayer for Today

Our most loving heavenly Father,

We come to set time apart for you today. Forgive us for letting the expectations of others dictate the use of our time and energy. Help us to learn to sit at your feet as Mary did. It is only in these times that we can hear you more clearly. We need to turn our media off and be in the moment with you. As we enter that time guide us and lead us as we care for others. Show us how to make meaningful connections. They may not remember it with their minds but the stirred emotions remain in their hearts. That is what matters. As we make heart connection with you enable us to carry that to others.

Amen