What Really Matters Today
This morning I woke up and asked God the question, “What really matters today?”
Not yesterday. Not tomorrow. Today.
God doesn’t like to be rushed so I let the question brew. The answer came while I was in the shower.
Be compassionate.
My field of vision is embarrassingly narrow. Much of the time it is consumed by the dramas that make up my life. In the morass of my self-interest I forget Plato’s adage: “Be kind; everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
Let’s not kid ourselves. From the barista at Starbucks to your closest friend, everyone is hanging on for dear life in some area of their life, engaged in mortal combat with something that to them feels like an unending, soul-wearying struggle.
Be compassionate.
The encouragement you give the bumbling barista at Starbucks might move the needle of their compass in the direction of hope. The decision to embrace a friend rather than simply shake their hand might embolden them enough to turn the tide of their inner battle.
Be compassionate.
That’s what really matters today.
17 Responses to “What Really Matters Today”
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Jesus, My Father, The CIA, and Me
“When I first discovered the grainy picture in my mother’s desk—me as a towheaded two year old sitting in what I remember was a salmon-orange-stained lifeboat—I was overwhelmed by the feeling that the boy in the boat was not waving and laughing at the
Well said. Thank you for passing on your conversation with God.
Hi Martin!
Amen!
Beautifully put, Ian. As I read your post over breakfast just now, I have a fresh hope and anticipation for today. (About to start your new book, too – can’t wait!)
Hi Andie, hope your day is wonderful. Glad you have my new book too.
God’s words to you, and your words to me remind me of the utter simplicity of true spirituality. With raging debates over heaven and hell, and senseless preoccupation with the end of the world, what matters “today” is usually quite simple. Thanks for the reminder brother.
Thanks Mike! Now get back to writing!
Beautiful words Ian, thanks. I hope you’re well bro.
Hi Mike, Good to hear from you!
Great thought! Really enjoying the new book that arrived in the post this morning.
Cheers!
Well put Ian! I was struck by its simplicity and power that it brought tears to my eyes! God bless you!
Hi Brian,
Thanks!
Just finished “Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me”. WOW! Loved it! Thanks; I have new hope.
Jane, thanks for the wonderful words!
Hey Ian-
I am so moved by your spirit and outlook! Thanks for this Compassion entry (and Plato quote). I was @Storyline conference, and had the pleasure to both meet you and listen to your insightful reflections (and I look fwd to soon reading your book). God bless you, brother. Thx for sharing your light/story/gifts. Here’s to the Hard Battle and to Hope.
Hi Alex,
Thanks a million. It was a wonderful conference for me as well. I hope you enjoy the book. Conspire goodness!
Ian