May 30, 2008

I opened my mail yesterday and was surprised to read a letter from a Conference director who left for a new job 8 months ago. So I glanced at the date at the top of the letter – March 16. A little late in getting to me, I thought. Then I looked again and was startled that the full date was March 16, 2006.

To confirm I looked for the postmark on the envelope. March 16, 2006. Wow. Nothing can stop the postal service, but something sure held onto this letter. My life wasn’t significantly altered by not getting the letter. It probably won’t change much now, even though the envelope happened to contain a CD recording of a seminar speaker I had requested – 28 months ago. I’d forgotten I wanted it.

I don’t know where the envelope has been, but it would be fun to speculate. I am thankful to have the CD. I’ll enjoy listening to it in the car.

I’m struck again of the axiom “out of sight, out of mind.” That was very true in this case. I haven’t thought about Dan’s (the man recorded on the CD) message for a long time. He had some very good things to say as I remember. We’ll see if I actually remember.

What do you keep in sight (and in mind) and how do you do it? Daily devotions are a way to keep something on our mind. Date books, cell phone calendars, fridge notes, Sabbaths - all of these can bring important priorities to mind. Cultivating habits of thought and of discipline can keep priorities before us.

There is a Biblical perspective that informs us on the importance of keeping priorities because there is a day coming when it will be too late to remember.

“So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the special blessings that will come to you at the return of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:13

With full commitment,
Pastor Steve