Chasing WonderSample

Day 8: Wonder in the Everyday 

Are you ready to see your life in a whole new way? It all starts with one choice…say yes to the unknown. Take a step out toward your life of big adventures, chase after and live in wonder. Breathe in the goodness of God everywhere you go, even in the busyness of life. Be aware of the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary. Henry David Thoreau said, “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”

And it’s easier than you think. Commit to notice things like:

• A beautiful sunrise

• The kindness of a stranger

• A toddler’s giggle

• A clear sky full of stars

• A delicate snowflake

• Puppy breath

• A warm cup of coffee

• A comforting hug

Living in wonder has become habit for me. I notice. And to be honest, I don’t know if I could continue to do what I do otherwise. If you want to avoid burnout, develop a heart that chases after and delights in the wonder all around you. It is a surefire deterrent.

I make it a priority to take note when there is something exceptional. In the midst of the ordinary, when something extraordinary happens, I don’t allow myself to glance past it or shrug it off as unimportant. Every day I am amazed at the things I get to do, the people I am blessed to know, the places God has brought me, and the love around me. And that is true whether I am climbing the steps of the Acropolis or sitting at home in my living room. I’m happy because there is wonder to be found all around me. 

You too can live amazed, in awe of the wonder around you, but it doesn’t just happen. You need a little creativity, and a commitment to seek His wonder. Chase after it with everything you have.

Psalm 40:5 says, "You have multiplied, O Lord my God, your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us; none can compare with you! I will proclaim and tell of them, yet they are more than can be told."

There is more wonder out there than you can possibly find in a lifetime, but think of all the amazing days you’ll have looking for it! Such discoveries are what keep life from becoming stale and monotonous. Just when we feel buried in the boredom and monotony of life with only the same to look forward to, God amazes us with a special little nod, tailor-made for us, and keeps us on our toes. 

Today, keep your eyes peeled for the next wonder just around the corner and make a list of 10 things you might have otherwise missed, if you weren’t looking for them.