In the quiet moments of reflection, a question often lingers in my mind: “How much is life worth? How much are we worth? How much are they worth?” The currency of this existential market is not gold or silver; it is time and attention. It’s a currency that will always feel scarce, yet even a small investment can yield immeasurable returns.
Every day, I engage in a simple yet profound exercise. It begins with a prayer, a universal whisper for everyone, a blanket of hope and peace covering all those dear to me. Then, I delve into a practice of mindfulness, where I reflect on the sweet times, the precious moments, and the unique areas of our lives that bring joy. In these moments, I consciously highlight the positive truths of each character in my life. This practice is my armor against bitterness and resentment, my shield in a world that often glorifies negativity. This alone seen through the gospel has been my strength in hard times.
As I reflect, scripture naturally floods my mind, providing a foundation for my thoughts. Proverbs 17:22 teaches me, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” This wisdom reminds me of the healing power of joy and the destructive nature of a dispirited soul. In James 1:17, I am reminded that “Every good and perfect gift is from above,” a testament to the divine origins of our blessings. Ephesians 4:2-3 urges me to “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love,” a guiding principle for nurturing peace and unity in relationships. And in Philippians 4:8, I find an invitation to focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable – a call to embrace the excellence and praiseworthy aspects of life.
This daily routine is not just an exercise; it’s a battle against my inherent inclination to complain. It is an admission of my past misconceptions about strength, where toughness was mistakenly equated with emotional suppression. But I have learned that true strength lies in vulnerability, in the ability to express love and gratitude.
Never forget, especially for the believer, that love is far more glorious than merely having a friend, partner, or companion. It is the embodiment of an unbreakable covenant, a promise that endures through trials and triumphs. Today, and every day, I choose to rejoice in this love and uphold this sacred promise.
I pray that you, too, find joy in the small moments, strength in the scriptures, and peace in the love that surrounds us. May we all cherish the currency of time and attention, investing it wisely in the people and values that make life truly rich.
Remember, there is no inflation in the economy of true, willful, and decisive love. A few pennies last a long while. For just 3 cents a day….
Rest.