Focus on the forest

God, according to his promise, has brought to Israel a savior, Jesus. (Acts 13:23) 

Sometimes we miss the forest for the trees. We focus on the little things right in front of us, our everyday concerns and preoccupations, and lose sight of the big picture of God’s plan for our lives.

This can be true even with our acts of faith. For example, we can be so focused on getting to Mass on Sunday and saying our prayers every morning that we lose sight of their significance or power. Or we can be so intent on getting God to answer a particular need that we fail to see how much he has already done for us and how much he promises to do for us if we stay close to him.

In today’s first reading, Paul is showing the people in Pisidia the big picture. He outlines how God’s plan has unfolded over thousands of years, and how it has culminated in the sending of Jesus as Savior. Everything God has promised, Paul proclaims, is coming true now in Christ.

Just what has God promised? That if we believe in his Son, we will have eternal life (John 5:24). That all things do work for our good (Romans 8:28). That he will be with us forever, in this life and for all eternity (Matthew 28:20).

This is the big picture—the “forest”—that we need to focus on in the midst of the “trees” of our everyday concerns and obligations. God keeps his promises! He has a plan for me!

No matter what the specific circumstances of your life may be, God’s overall vision for you never changes. Whatever hardships and suffering you may be experiencing now, however your life is unfolding, keep God’s love and his purposes in the forefront of your mind, and you’ll be more peaceful.

Through Jesus, God has fulfilled his promises. He loves us, he forgives us, and he invites us to spend all of eternity with him. This vision can inspire you when you rise in the morning and when you go to sleep at night. It can remain with you throughout the day. Everything else in your life fits into this plan—a plan not just for today or tomorrow but for all eternity!

“Father, thank you for fulfilling your promises. Help me to see every aspect of my life as part of your plan for me.”

from wau.org

Plan A

He told his disciples to have a boat ready. (Mark 3:9) 

Crowds upon crowds followed Jesus, and the more he healed, the more people pressed in on him. So many people surged toward him, in fact, that he had to act to avoid being crushed. But he had a boat ready, not for a quick escape, but so that he could continue to teach and heal.

Just as he did back then, Jesus has a plan today—for your life! He is always ready to teach you, to build you up, to forgive you, or to guide your feet. Nothing takes him by surprise; he is always ready, always prepared for whatever challenges life throws at you. 

Jesus’ plan is no “Plan B” or “Plan C” or even “Plan Z.” It’s a perfect plan that will bring you peace, and it begins with you relaxing into God’s presence. Press in to be with Jesus just as the crowds did. He will never retreat beyond your ability to hear him. Maybe that means visiting the Tabernacle, sitting quietly in a comfortable chair, or just taking a deep breath in the middle of a rushed day. Read a psalm or listen to worshipful music to help you quiet your thoughts in his presence. Try to picture Jesus sitting next to you or calling to you from his boat.

Then give him time to speak to you. Pay attention to the thoughts in your mind and the feelings in your heart. Write down anything that occurs to you—pictures that form in your imagination; messages of guidance, assurance, or conviction; or Scripture passages that come to mind. If the message brings you joy or comfort or encouragement, it’s probably Jesus speaking to you. Remember, he has come to save, not to condemn.

Jesus wants to speak to every one of us. This is his Plan A. He wants to teach us about who he is and what it means to follow him. He wants to tell us about his mercy and his salvation. He wants to give us new insights into his love. Especially today, as we begin the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, he wants to tell us how we can be his ambassadors of reconciliation and healing.

“Jesus, I believe you want to speak to me today. Here I am. I’ve come to hear your voice.”

from wau.org