. . . I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1
Wife, Mother, Grammie, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister, friend, aunt, cousin, nurse, teacher, writer, neighbor, volunteer . . . so many different titles and roles. We all have, and many are the same. Each name, each identity has its own set of responsibilities; its own special people involved.
Sometimes it seems those demands simply grow greater each day, doesn’t it? Some days there are just too many to feel as though we are handling any of them effectively. There are times when my names and roles collide and I feel like I’m in the middle of a kaleidoscope, turning this way and that, and doing a lousy job of attending to any of it! The shapes, colors and sizes of requirement create a stained glass-like, somewhat chaotic pattern within me; and the framework, like the thin band separating each piece, is my name. Honestly, there are moments I cringe when I hear it! I want to retreat! Do not want to respond to another demand! Don’t want to answer another request. Occasionally don’t we all feel like that!
How can we hear God calling amidst all the shouts for our attention – all the roles and needs with our name being clamored for to take care of? For me the struggle to hear Him then begins; a cycle usually ending in frustration at my inability to do so in all the noise! It seems the harder I try the less I am actually listening.
Then I remember. It is only when my awareness of that quiet spot within is found that I am able to hear Him whispering to me . . . . “How can you not hear Me Kathleen, in each and every one?”
Heavenly Father, for the peace we feel when we hear you call our name, we thank you! How awesome to know you speak to each of us personally. In the colorful chaos of life we are centered. The most important title we have been given is: God’s Child! Help us to hear your voice in all circumstances, in everyone.
Copyright© 2015 Kathleen A. Matson