EPIPHANY VII
February 20, 2022
“Driven to Distraction”
How many times have you heard that a car accident is caused by a distracted driver? I would imagine more times than you could accurately say. The accidents range from fender benders or bumper bumps to terrible collisions in which lives are lost. The thing is, when a driver is texting, talking, or looking away for any reason, the potential is there for something to go terribly wrong.
It’s highly likely that every one of us who has ever driven has been “once in a while, just a tiny bit” distracted behind the wheel. Most people overestimate their ability to multitask while driving, thinking that momentary glance away won’t cause a problem. However, if you’ve ever seen a demonstration of just how quickly the lack of attention can lead to loss of control, it’s obvious that no one is good at judging the safety of looking away “for just a second.”
Distracted driving and distracted living run on almost parallel tracks. Jobs, families, a myriad of responsibilities and commitments, are all clamoring for our attention. We try to prioritize, to balance wants and needs, because we don’t want to superficially relate to our loved ones, or miss out on opportunities and experiences that only come along at rare times. As we determine what is truly important, we need to be self-aware, mindful of what our values are, and how to filter out the unwanted and unnecessary demands on our time and energy. Of course, that’s more easily said than done.
Relevant, down to earth guidance is available to us throughout the Bible. The Book of Proverbs shows us the way to live a quality life in relationship to God, as well as practical advice on how to conduct oneself harmoniously within the family and the community. My child, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments. (Proverbs 3:1) We’ll also find instructions similar to the Ten Commandments, with more detail and also including family life: Listen, children, to a father’s instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight. (4:1) These words are as timely in this day and age as they were thousands of years ago: No one finds security by wickedness, but the root of the righteous will never be moved. (12:3)
Many of Jesus’ teachings reflect the precepts set forth in the book of Proverbs, which is no surprise. He was raised on the teachings of the Old Testament (the Torah) from his youth, and they were an important part of his ability to understand God’s will for his people. The Gospel of Matthew, chapters 5 – 7, gives us the Beatitudes, The Lord’s Prayer and The Golden Rule, along with one parable after another about living as God’s people on this earth. Take some time to read Proverbs and Matthew — it’s very interesting to find the connections. Life experiences are both timeless and universal, and we are blessed to have God’s Word providing us with inspiration, instruction, and reassurance — not distraction!
Paying close attention,
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers