Just pray............

I have the list for groceries.  Check.  I have the list for what needs to be done around the house. Check.  I have the list for upcoming events. Check.  Now just to "check"  off each item on these lists  as they are completed.  Organization is a wonderful thing. Getting things done is a wonderful thing.

I must be careful that I don't relegate all of my life actions and doings to lists. What about people?  I have the list for that too.  Make the calls. Check.  Smile and nod. Check.......but is my heart and mind focused on them and the need that is crushing them at this moment. 

During my work years, I had a magnet that had a formula for being successful in people relationships to ensure business success.  After choose your attitude and make their day, the next principle was be there.  Be there.  Lay other things aside and focus your attention to the person in front of you right now and their concern as if the fifty things piled on your desk didn't exist.

Being there is an important part of many things.  This morning I am thinking particularly about prayer.  Am I being there during pray?  Do I just have a list of the various needs?  Missionaries, church family, physical needs, financial needs, family. Is it just a list that I feel like I have to say "check" to each one?  Am I standing in the synagogue and think how good I am by remembering everything on the list?  Is it like a Christmas wish list that I am wishing to be fulfilled? Or, do I humble my self and ask for mercy?

Lord,  help be to be there during pray.  Make my time of prayer a time of adoration to you. Help me commune with you so that by being with you, I am changed.  Help me to live so that every breath is a prayer of  praise and worship to you.  Change me..............