Priorities
 I’m writing a little earlier in the day than normal. Debbie and I are looking forward to attending the Centennial Dinner tonight in Broomfield. It will be an opportunity for me to connect with many friends from my days in the State House. Thanks to Glenn and Mary Janssen for making our attendance possible through giving us their meal tickets while they work the room as the official photographers for the evening.
I do feel that I am learning to manage my energy better. As my day was moving along, I decided to take a quick nap instead of heading out to the curb to wheel around in my new wheelchair. My occupational therapist is coming this afternoon and then I need to do a quick change to be ready for this evening’s event.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…
When you pray, say this:
   Father, let your name be kept holy.
Let your kingdom come.
Give us our bread day by day.
    Forgive us as we forgive everyone else.
Don’t allow us to be tempted.” Luke 11:2-4 (GW)
These verses above are the “Lord’s Prayer” from the God’s Word Translation. As I read this verse this morning the brevity and succinctness caught my attention. It came across more like the brief outline of the basic priorities on which we should focus our life:
1 – Honoring God’s name – Do our lives reflect His character and bring Him glory?
2 – Focusing on His Kingdom – His Kingdom is eternal, this world is temporary
3 – Daily provision for needs – “Daily”can be a challenge, but it calls us to trust Him
4 – Forgiving and being forgiven – The key to healthy relationships
5 – Victory in temptation – Keeping our relationship and communion with Christ strong
Matthew 6:33 in Jesus teaching on worry He says, “But first, be concerned about his kingdom and what has his approval. Then all these things will be provided for you.” (GW)
The idea is…“Focus on earth and you may miss heaven. Focus on heaven and the things of earth will come as a consequence.”
So, there are five words to help you remember the heart of the “Lord’s Prayer.” Name, kingdom, bread, forgive, temptation. Five words, five priorities that are critical for our lives. The Lord helps each one to guide our lives as we trust in Him.