I like lists. Grocery lists, chore lists, packing-for-vacation lists. Yep…organization has always been important to me. I’ve never been good at preparing for any job or trip or project, if I don’t think out a plan first. I have a list of books from every author that I enjoy and systematically read their books and check them off. When we have a get-together scheduled at our house, I have a list of jobs for each day leading up to the party. If I get behind on the tasks, I go into a panic until I catch up to the schedule. I have a feeling that I’m not alone in this personality quirk.
But, since turning 50 years old, I’ve noticed that my lists aren’t quite so important anymore. There’s a little more dust on our furniture, days when I haven’t planned a meal to cook for the family, and just a general slacking-off on my part. I know my husband’s thrilled because I haven’t written him a list in years. I guess priorities change…and energy levels lessen.
In 2015, I attended the first of a three-night parish mission at my church. We focused on knowing God’s love. Knowing God’s love. Knowing God’s love…
As I sat in silence during Adoration, I thought about my affinity for lists. I realized that I’ve never written a God List. My faith is an essential part of what makes me who I am. I love the Lord. I am thankful for His many gifts and blessings. I hunger for an eternal life with Him. I try to live according to His Word. But have I made a plan for my salvation? Am I truly getting ready to meet Him? Nope. Not really.
“So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” (Matthew 24:44)
To be honest, I always think of that day of meeting the Lord as very far off. I’m guessing that people who die in an unexpected car accident, or get a terminal diagnosis, or have a sudden and fatal heart attack don’t really think that they are close to their own end-of-life when they wake up the morning of their last day of earthly life.
What are my priorities? If I really want to spend eternity with Jesus, then I better straighten them out! I need to get serious, be diligent, and create a plan. So…what to do? I’m going to begin with knowing God’s love for me and sharing His love with others.
“For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
I think I need to start with a list…a God List.