Distractions

I am easily distracted by noises, movement, and other things that happen aroun . . . sorry a Cardinal flew by my window, where was I  . . . oh yeah, distractions.  I can be reading a good book, watching a game or TV show, talking on the phone, studying, or in a conversation with someone and something simple will happen and my focus changes. 

This interrupt driven nature can get in the way of relationships.  I learned early in our 20 year marriage, that when Amy wants to talk, I mute or even turn off the TV.  I do the same when our son, Andrew, asks a question.  If I am on the computer (working or researching) I choose to completely turn away from the keyboard or screen.  People are more important than technology.

This characteristic also can inhibit effective study.  I am struggling this week especially, there are roofers on my house, where I am working this week, so I can be here if they need to ask a question.  The hammering, scraping, the sound of falling debris, and their banter keeps getting me off task. (What was that noise? - brb . . . They dropped a load of shingles in the trash truck.)  See what I mean?!

I am sure I am not the only one easily distracted.

There is one other area that distraction can cause great harm; the realm of spiritual focus.  Many of us find the things of the world way too distracting.  The world pulls at us, flashes pretty lights, makes beautiful music, and paints beautiful scenes that lead us to at best momentarily lose focus on God and at worst lead us completely away.  That must be why Peter penned the following warning: "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." 1 Pet 5:8 (ESV)

Scott

Your Attention Please

Driving a highway near Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, I saw what looked like an International Scout parked in a field. Then I noticed that a couple of "Hillbilly Hounds" were enjoying a drive of their own. Alright, it was a prop to get the attention of tourists and in my case it worked, but I think I have seen those same fellows (or their kin) driving around my county! I thought it was funny and had Amy take this picture when we drove back by.

That does make me wonder what gets and keeps our attention. Not far from Mammoth Cave is Bowling Green, KY where GM makes the Corvette. There is also a Museum nearby dedicated to the history of the Corvette. It was a good visit. Do sports cars, luxury cars, expensive cars grab your attention. I knew a couple who placed a picture of a certain luxury car on their refrigerator as a goal that one day they would be able to afford that car.

Some of us dream of exotic vacations; others value fame. These things and other things of the world pull at us gaining our attention. Recently, the world stood still for a funeral of an entertainer, while somewhere a Gold Star Mother quietly buried her son who died in the cause of freedom. For her son there was no gold casket, no parade of music and movie stars, just a lonely trumpet playing taps as a seven guns fired three rounds each. Fame, fortune, talent, and glamor attract those in the world.

What grabs your attention? Do you notice people praying in restaurants? Do you look forward to spending time with God in prayer or in study? What is the focus of your life?