Surface Living
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
We are all guilty of surface living; we do what we have always done each day. By habit, we navigate through time and feel comfortable. Our day begins with an alarm jingle and we yearn for just a little more rest. The rich aroma of fresh coffee pulls us upward and onward. Breakfast awaits as our tummies growl. The day has started.
Dressing for success or comfort, we carefully select our attire and head out the door. Entering our destination, whether paid, volunteer or just a phone call, we greet people half-heartedly and ask “How are you doing today?” Knowing full well they will probably say, “Good” or “Fine” before we skim the surface to get to the weather or some other insignificant statement. We might even get around to prying into a little family stuff. Nothing too personal of course!
Within the confines of our office, cubicle or vehicle we launch into thought about our heavy workload and try to makes sense of what we are doing. What is the purpose of all this? Is it just to make money or to feel better within our soul? As Solomon so wisely said, “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless! What do people gain from their labors…”(Ecclesiastes 1:2-3)
After our tasks are completed for the day, we wind down and head home. Our thoughts include such things as: What will dinner be tonight? How will I get all these papers graded? I need more time to prepare for this presentation tomorrow? I think [XX] wanted to talk with me today but I just didn’t have the time. All of a sudden, it is time for bed. Where did the day go? Did we miss anything important?
Our head hits the pillow and either our mind is still racing or we are so exhausted that we fall into the comatose sleep. There goes that jingle again—and it starts all over.
Does this sound familiar? This is just not where I choose to live! Being thankful for each new day starts early. Spending the day with Him, under His watchful eye brings pure peace. While we may not know what lies ahead, we can always explore and go deeper. I want to do more than know about Him, I want to know Him! Don’t you?
My Savior-God, thank You for Your patience. Please don’t let another day go by where I just skim the surface of life. My desire is to live it enveloped in Your love. AMEN.