As many of my readers (and editors!) already know, recently I was without power to my computer for the better, or worst, part of the week. It was both frustrating and soul-searching. I felt so helpless when it came to submitting my article to a number of newspapers and independent readers but I can also say that by the time the fourth day had passed, a sense of serenity ruled in the house. No more interrupting any and all tasks in order to check email, etc. Never have so many crossword puzzles been done in so short a time.
Here鈥檚 the really interesting part, though: when the power came back on in our neighbourhood, ours was the only house on the block that didn鈥檛 have Internet access. I finally called our service provider, did all she suggested. Next I made note of the earliest date that a technician could come. Booked for two hours, he was finished in 15 minutes. The most frustrating and embarrassing part, however, was that a piece of equipment with its own power source had been affected. I didn鈥檛 realize that I needed to deal with that connection separately as well as with the main plug-ins. Red face along with great relief.
In writing to the believers in Ephesus, Paul spells out 鈥渋tems to check鈥� in assessing our personal spiritual condition. Here are some of the things he mentions: falsehood, stealing, dishonest work, and stinginess towards those in need. It鈥檚 easy to look at those highly visible faults and pat ourselves on the back. But like my computer, its often those seemingly little or hidden things that cause us to lose fellowship with God and with others.
鈥溾�et rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander as well as all types of malicious behaviour.鈥� (Ephesians 4:25-31)
Check every connection!
