How can we sing our song of faith and hope found only in Christ Jesus to a world that desperately needs to hear it? How do we influence the world instead of allowing it to influence us?

As children we were cautioned before crossing potentially dangerous streets to stop, look and listen. This is still valid advice as we walk across the potentially dangerous roads of life.

We are caught up in the hurried and pressured pace of the world. Our gracious Lord invites us to catch our breath, to refocus and to be restored. We need to stop.

Our Sundays, once a day of quiet and rest, are as filled with busy activities as most weekdays. Our lives are over-stuffed with schedules and day timers, palm pilots and cell phones. Stopping helps us refocus on the world through the perspective of God's Word. As we take time to sit quietly, with Scripture and prayer, our eyes can be placed upon spiritual realities. Be still, and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10a).

What we see and hear in our surrounding culture demands attention. Fast-paced advertising and the bright colors of pleasure-filled possessions can seem attractive. Our vision can become blurred.

God's Word adjusts our world understanding through a cross and fills our eyes with the loving face of our Savior. Hebrews 12:2 invites us to fix our eyes upon Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Daily, we look to Him.

The siren song of the world can easily drown out the gentle sounds of God's direction and guidance. As we take the time to cease our hurried pace and allow the Lord to adjust our vision, it becomes easier to listen. In love our Heavenly Father leads and directs us, just as His Word promises: I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you (Psalm 32:8).

Lord, give us a hunger and desire for wisdom and direction found in Your Word. In the midst of our daily activities, help us to stop and look for You and to listen for Your guidance so that our lives will glorify You. Amen.