A Call to Mindfulness

I love my new phone app! It is called- "Mindfulness Bell". I can set it to ring at various intervals. When I hear the tone I am reminded to stop and remember, for just a moment, the presence  of the living Christ with me.
 This is exactly what I need during my busy days. I want to remember that Jesus is always with me but oftentimes I get so caught up with the busyness of the day that I forget who I am and whose I am . And because it makes a noise - my co-workers hear it or my husband hears it - and we all take a moment to pause and remember.
In the Oregon Idaho stewardship newsletter – Grace and Gratitude – Tanya Barnett  and Tom Wilson write about the new church year, Advent.  Since Advent means to "draw near", they ask; " What is drawing your attention, time, money, prayers the most these days?  Perhaps it's work, holiday preparations, health, family, keeping your house warm, concern for others, or something else. Whether it's a warm fireplace or a busy shopping mall, to what do you "draw near" in these days? "  This quote is also included in their article:

Reformer Martin Luther once wrote, "Do you think God is sleeping on a pillow in heaven? God is wholly present in all creation, in every corner, behind you and before you."

So what reminds you to draw near to God these days? Do you need a Mindfulness Bell ?

May you be more fully aware of God's presence not only during Advent but in all your days.

To receive the Oregon Ida stewardship newsletter  Grace and Gratitude, contact Bill Mullette-Bauer ;  bill@umoi.org