By Richard Betts of Lee’s Summit, Missouri USA

Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell. Put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.

Too often we live life on autopilot. Have you ever driven home and had no memory of how you got there? I know I have.

A university research project placed obstacles along a campus walking path to test how observant people were. A signboard announcing the research project was placed on the path in such a way that people had to move to avoid it. When asked a few moments later if they had passed any obstacles, most were not aware they had avoided a signboard. Their minds were someplace else while they walked.

A follow-up study took place. This time $5 bills were placed on tree branches that extended over a narrow pathway at head height. Everyone avoided the branches, but few noticed the money that was hanging there. This experiment was inspired by a YouTube video where a hundred $1 bills were hung on a tree to watch how people would respond.

How many gifts do we miss every day because we aren’t paying attention? Let go of your thoughts. Surrender to the moment and be vulnerable to receiving what’s being given to you: the kindness of friends and family; the bounty of your senses; the natural world, the sound of rain, the sweep of the stars; or the smile of a stranger.

We don’t earn these things. We can’t. They are just simply given. The best we can do is receive them. Let them fill your cup and draw you into a deeper sense of connection with life, others, and God. Be fully awake and let it sink in that receiving generosity is good.

Prayer Phrase

“…do good and share what you have” (Hebrews 13:16).

Enough and to Spare

Take three slow, deep breaths. As you inhale, silently say, “There is enough.” As you exhale, say, “And more to share.” Then name aloud or write down three ways you already experience God’s generosity in your life—big or small. End by asking, “How can I share from what I’ve been given today?”

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.