Focus

I don’t know if you have had this challenge, though I would prefer to believe that I am not alone.

I have had trouble for some time being able to settle down and focus on some tasks. Specifically, my school work, though in other areas as well. Oh sure, I pause here and there, and I’ll get a few pages read, or a paragraph or two written, but when it comes to focusing for any length of time, it has been a real challenge.

The last two weeks have been a real blessing, though not without some struggle of their own.

Each day, I was able to set a goal of what I wanted to accomplish. At the end of the day, or when my goal was achieved, I gave myself a reward. This might have been some time working on my hobby, or reading a book for fun. Last Thursday, my reward was to watch the Astros on opening day. (They didn’t win, but watching the game itself was fun.)

We’re in Holy Week, and I find myself reflecting on Jesus in the Garden. He goes there to pray, and pray he does. Now, granted, he is asking God to not make him go through with his task, but, he is also looking for strength and courage to do what must be done. Essentially, Jesus goes to the garden of Gethsemane to get focused or refocused.

I think we all get to points in life where we simply cannot focus on what is in front of us. I remember immediately after Hurricane Harvey, having flooded both at home and at work, and with so much to do, for a short while I had trouble focusing and making decisions. I will never forget as I was driving one day, my younger daughter, Kimmi, telling me, “relax dad, I’ve got this.” Her words were so comforting and helpful. The next day I was able to start prioritizing tasks and getting back on my proverbial horse.

We all need, from time to time, to get refocused. That has been what the Lenten season has been about; refocusing on God. For some, we need to get away. Others need somebody to help them. There are times when work, chores, children, friends, things to do, and the list goes on and on, get so overwhelming that we simply cannot function as needed. Jesus needed to step back, and so do we.

I want to encourage everyone to get the space and the perspective you need in order to take care of yourself. Our journeys will continue long after Resurrection Sunday. The tasks of building God’s Kingdom, of loving our neighbors, and so much more are still to be done. In order to love others, we must first love ourselves. Don’t feel guilty if you need some time, or even physical distance to get the needed perspective. Jesus did, and we are certainly no better than him.