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My daily devotional quoted the following passage of scripture this morning:

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things.”  Philippians 4:8

As I read these words two questions began to emerge in my mind.  The first was when/how do I meditate?  And the second was what thoughts regularly fill my mind?

The second question is easier to answer.  The thoughts that regularly fill my mind are thoughts of work, kids, and other obligations.  What class am I teaching this week?  Check email.  What book or lesson do I need to read to prepare?  What time do I have to go pick up the kids?  Feed them an afternoon snack.  What afterschool activities do I need to take them to?  What am I making for dinner?  I’ve got to write newsletter articles.  Did I send that email?  I need to help Sarah with her homework.   Stop at the grocery store to pick up milk and bread.  And what am I making for dinner?  Clean the house.  Fold some clothes.  Help Patrick tie his shoes.  Did I sign up to make cookies for Patrick’s class?  Check email.  Write some checks.  These are the things that run through my mind all day and night.  Did I get everything done today, what do I have to do tomorrow?  Rush, rush, rush from one thing to another.

So this call to meditate, to think about things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report is a challenge to me.  Which brings me to the second question; when and how do I meditate?  Although I read quite a bit from my Bible and other books in preparation for classes or small groups I am leading, I rarely take the time to just sit and meditate.  To contemplate the meaning of what I have read, or seen, or experienced.  To let it wash over me and fill my soul.  There is a longing in me for this time of meditation and contemplation.  A desire to be still and know God.

In this season of Lent I am choosing to take more time to meditate on the good, to find some quiet time each day to contemplate the events of the day and where I have seen God in them.  I hope you will join me in this practice of meditation.  Let me know what praiseworthy things you uncover as you do.