Day 25 |Tom’s Story: Bookending the Day

Reflection

Tom’s alarm goes off at 6:15. He makes a beeline for the kettle, grabs his Bible, and kneels down by the sofa. He works through a book at a time, reading a section each morning. He engages his mind. He thinks about what the passage might mean for him and those he’s likely to see that day. He engages his heart too, opening himself up to be shaped by whatever the Spirit presses upon him.

Because Tom is a real person, sometimes his mind wanders. But that’s okay – he’s learned not to get annoyed at himself. Sometimes his ‘distracting’ thoughts need to be brought into what he’s been reading and praying about. And because Tom has real children, sometimes they emerge from their slumber before he’s finished. This is where headphones and Paw Patrol come in for 10 precious minutes.

After a day of work, when the kids are tucked up in bed, Tom finds a comfy spot on the sofa. He thanks God for loving him that day. He thinks about all the moments he’s experienced God’s goodness: the piece of work that went well, the kind word from a friend, a tasty lunch, the way his wife turned an argument back into a conversation.

He savours each, recognising them as signs of God’s love. He thinks, too, about the moments he wasn’t his best self: the judgemental thought about a fellow shopper, the envy he felt when he popped into someone’s neat and tidy house. He receives God’s grace and forgiveness for these. Then he prays for one or two people he encountered that day, praying for God to pour out His love upon them.

These practices bookend Tom’s day. The morning time gives him confidence and direction for the day ahead, and the evening an opportunity to reflect.

What practices are shaping you as a disciple? What is helping you cultivate character and confidence? Is there something God is prompting you to start?

Responding in prayer

Heavenly Father, You know my heart, You know my life. You know what I need in order to grow.

Guide me into life-giving rhythms. May the times I intentionally spend with You be rich, soaked in your grace.