Simplicity

“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together” -- Colossians 1:17 (CSB).

A critical node is a single point of failure in a system, which—if disrupted or damaged—causes a cascade effect for shutting down the entire system and surrounding infrastructure. 

I had a friend who bought an expensive new boat. He invited me to go to the lake with him on the inaugural trip. As we backed the boat into the water at the boat ramp, water started filling the bottom of the boat. Every boat has a plug that covers a small hole in the floor that allows any water that may have gotten into the boat to drain out after a day on the water. He had forgotten to bring the boat plug. This expensive boat loaded with high-tech instruments, a powerful engine, and other bells and whistles were rendered useless by a $3 part that could be purchased at Walmart.

The boat plug was a critical node. It was simple; so simple that it was easy to overlook. 

You may have water pouring into the boat of your life. Could it be that you have overlooked the critical node that is Jesus Christ? It is so easy to get distracted by all the exciting, flashy bells and whistles this world throws at you. Our reality becomes a complex, microwave life that eventually wears us down into acceptance as the norm. 

Perhaps it’s time to simplify. When you refocus on the critical nodes of your life you will be amazed at how quickly the non-essential things you have allowed to take hold will lose their luster. The good news about a critical node is that the damage that occurs when one is disrupted or destroyed can quickly be reversed by simply reinstating it to its original place and purpose. 

Reflection:

What is a simple step you can take today? You can reconnect with Jesus on a daily basis. You have immediate, 24/7 direct access to Him through the Scriptures and prayer. The step is simple. The impact is life-changing. How is your daily time with the Lord?

Verses

• John 15:5
• Colossians 1:16