How to make time for Our Father
Wednesday night: I made it home around 7PM. Washed my hands and changed my shirt. Freshened up my baby, read her a princess story, fed her and cuddled with a few minutes before putting her in her crib. Took a shower, had dinner with my husband. Finished writing a paper for my online class. Washed the baby bottles. Finally crashed next to my husband around 12 AM.
Thursday morning: I left at 6:30AM. Stayed at work until 6:30PM. Jumped on the subway to assist a 2 hours class. Got home around 10PM. Showered, ate and took care of other stuff (There is always “stuff” to be done). Crashed again around 12AM.
My schedule is actually smooth compare to other people I know. One of my friends does homework with her kids when she gets home from work around 9:30PM. EVERY NIGHT! It is hard enough to find time for yourself or to be with those you love. But most importantly how does a Christian stay connected with Our Father? One thing for sure, church one day a week- although important in a Christian life- is not sufficient.
I have implemented a few tips (some of them are still being worked on) in my life:
Kill two birds with one stone
Pick one or two activities you do every day – preferably at the same time- and pair it with connecting with God. I have a 45 minutes train ride to work so I use that time to do my morning devotion. Also, I listen to worship music and stay in prayer while washing the bottles at night. A wonderful 15 to 20 minutes to center myself after running around all day.
Take advantage of technology
I downloaded a free Bible and a devotion app on my phone. I don’t have to worry about an extra weight in my bag or forgetting my devotional book at home. And the app sends me two reminders a day. How convenient?
Find a prayer partner
Sometimes we are just too busy, too tired and/or simply not motivated to pray. But knowing you have an appointment with someone might be a big push. Once a week I catch up with my best friend over the phone. We talk about new challenges we are facing, decisions we need to make. We take turn listening to and encouraging each other even in the simplest and silliest things. And most importantly we close in prayer and blessings.
Do an activity (anything really!) in His honor
Some serve in ministries. Some preach the Gospel while commuting. I write this blog and keep a prayer journal. Just something to share His Love and offering Him the time we can’t seem to find on a daily basis.
Every bit counts
In my experience, Our Father doesn’t require us to spend two hours on our knees for Him to listen to us. Just like my family appreciates every second spent with me, God is looking forward to those minutes I spent on the train with Him or while we are washing the bottles “together”. If your heart is in the right place, a few minutes could bring more peace and joy than an entire week of prayers and fasting. Not that this is not needed at times.
Start now
…right now!
- Take a pen and paper. Or better yet use technology. Use your note taking app. Think of when you can “kill two birds with one stone“.
- Download a version of the Bible.
- Find a devotional guide that suits you (devotion for mothers, fathers, students…). The choices are endless.
- Make a list of the people you think might be interested in being your prayer partner.
- Think about what you can do for His glory.
- Now take a moment to pray for guidance through this new journey.
Be blessed!