I got up this morning and the sun was shining peacefully over the Hudson River. Oh good! I thought, It’s going to be a great day! My heart is easily influenced by external factors.
On the good side of this are the things that urge my heart toward God: gorgeous weather, small acts of kindness, having a day when life runs smoothly. On the bad side are the things that should urge my heart toward God, but don’t: a cranky kid who needs prayer, logistical glitches that make it clear the world isn’t designed for my convenience, inconsiderate people whose hearts could use an infusion of heavenly grace.
What I need to remember is this: My faith should influence the circumstances of the day rather than be influenced by them. Rain or shine, good day or bad, I’m called to bring Christ’s light into all situations, to all people.