Did you hear him today?
On a recent trip to Toronto, I found myself taking several subway rides to various appointments over the course of four days.
One of these trips took me through one of the busiest subway hubs in the city during the morning rush hour. It was at this station that I had the leave one subway line and transfer to another going in a different direction.
As is part of my character, I like to be early. This means that I have time for travel and mishaps along the way. On this particular morning, everything was running smoothly and when I got to the transfer station, I decided to slow my pace for a few moments and take in the ambience before boarding the next train.
I observed hundreds of people with their heads down, ears plugged with media players and business burdens (backpacks) on their back as they scurried through the station. Each one had their own plan, path and destination in mind. I observed one man working at the small convenient store quickly serving the impatient commuters as they purchased various items.
In all of the bustle it became clear, and odd, to me that something was missing. If I were to draw conclusions based on what I saw, everyone on their morning commute seemed unhappy. Their faces were blank as they made their way through the maze in the trap that has become their daily routine.
Everyone… except for one person.
At the crossroads of subway connectors, there was a man sitting on a stool playing a guitar and gently singing. He seemed out of place. With everyone rushing by him (some running) he continued his role as morning minstrel, unaffected by the constant flow of people around him.
He was actually quite good. His music was calming and soft. His singing was gentle and soothing. He brought an element of peace to the busy station.
I stood about 15 feet away from him and just watched this scene play out. I wanted to see how many people would stop, or at least slow down, to notice the man and hear his music. Not many did. I counted two; me and someone else.
In this moment, as I myself was working my way to my next appointment, I thought about my busy schedule and what I deem as important and urgent. I rush to appointments. My head is constantly caught up in what I need to do next rather than focusing on what is right in front of me.
Reading today's scripture reference, we learn about two people. Mary and Martha.
Luke 10:38-42 (ESV) says, "Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
I have to admit, most days I am like Martha rather than Mary. I am so busy and distracted with my own priorities that I frequently fail to stop and take in what God has intended for me hear. In a sense, I run through the Subway (life) and miss the beautiful music He has prepared for anyone who would listen.
I believe God has a message for us every day. Yes, EVERY day. He is just waiting for us to pause, rest at his feet, and give our full attention to him before he speaks to us. He is patient. He isn't obtrusive or pushy. He just wants us to choose to listen to the song he has prepared and let it change us. Sadly, I often choose otherwise.
My encouragement to you this week:
Find your message in the busy subway. Ask God to reveal himself to you in unique ways every day. You may be surprised where he shows up.
My Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I praise you for your goodness. I thank you for desiring to spend time with me, even in my busiest days. I confess that my schedule and distractions have also acted as detractions from you. I ask you to get my attention each day with songs of joy and messages of blessing. May I encourage my brothers and sisters to do the same. Amen.
Blessings as Always!
Steve Shrout
President, Corpath Forums
Email: president@corpath.ca
"Pursuing Excellence in Business, Life and Spirit"
Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone. Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.
Attached to this is a printable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection. I encourage you to print it, answer the questions and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought. You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and, over time, your binder will become a book representing your Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development, and SPIRITUAL growth.
