"Wandering Minds"

 

“Wandering Minds”

 

During my final year of pastoral ministry I completed my first unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at a seniors’ continuing care community. One of the program’s requirements was conducting a Sunday afternoon chapel service for the residents which was to be taped and shown to the study group for evaluation. When my turn came Karen accompanied me to run the video system. I have a habit of walking around when I preach so Karen had trouble following my movements. I closed the service with the old hymn “Come, Thou Fount” and afterwards she told me I lived up to a line in the last verse: “Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it….” We’ve had a few chuckles over the years as we remember that day.

“Prone to wander” is a description of what my mind frequently does when listening, reading and especially praying.  Too often as I pray something triggers a distraction and before long I’m in la-la land and wonder how I got there. Maybe you’ve experienced this as well. So how do we keep our concentration on where God wants our minds to be? As usual, Scripture has help for us.

First, we need to focus on the One with whom we’re communing when we pray. Psalm 123:2 reminds us, “…Our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy.” An anonymous but inspired author writes, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus….” (Hebrews 12:2). In her hymn “All for Jesus” Mary James describes her experience: “Since mine eyes were fixed on Jesus I’ve lost sight of all beside….” Paul had it right when he said, “…One thing I do….” (Philippians 3:13)—we’d do well to emulate this practice. (Emphasis added throughout.)

Next, direct your attention to the truth of God’s Word. Luke cites the practice of the believers in Berea who “…received the message…and examined the Scriptures every day….” (Acts 17:11). Another great hymn, “Break Thou the Bread of Life” by Mary Lathbury asks God to “Show me the truth concealed within Thy Word.” So let’s intertwine biblical truth with our prayers.

Lastly, when we find our thoughts going towards unhealthy places we can bring them back with a healthy dose of Philippians 4:8 (NLT): “Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” As we do this it’ll leave no room for the junk our enemy wants to rent space in our heads with as we put out the “No Vacancy” sign.

In His “discussion” with the religious leaders Jesus told them, “…I always do what pleases (my Father),” (John 8:29). Remember, He’s “…left us an example, that we should follow in his steps.” (1 Peter 2:21).

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan