God’s Agenda
By Dorene Kilburn of Stratford, Ontario, Canada
That which seeks to harden one human heart against another by constructing walls of fear and prejudice is not of God. Be especially alert to these influences, lest they divide you or divert you from the mission to which you are called. —Doctrine and Covenants 163:3c
As I was relaxing before launching into the day’s tasks, I began pondering the many thoughts expressed at a recent retreat. They left me dissatisfied—I felt “stuck” outside being or doing what I should. I’m a task-oriented person, always planning what I want to complete on any given day. I have a written agenda.
Suddenly it occurred to me that I have two agendas—mine and God’s! I realized that often God is urging me to do something that isn’t on my to-do list. Because that something might ask me to step beyond my comfort zone, I ignore it. Not responding to God’s urging usually results in me having an intense argument with myself.
What should I do? The answer is simple: follow Divine instructions and believe that God will go before me and lessen my anxiety.
Perhaps some of you can identify with this. Beyond the usual household tasks, our plans for the day may include only tasks we are comfortable with, like being with close friends. To avoid undertaking something new, to shun someone marginalized by society, may not even be a conscious choice. But we can be intentional in our lives as disciples. We can put our timidity behind us, assured that God will be with us as we make it our mission to share the peace of Jesus Christ with stranger and friend alike.
Prayer for Peace
God of Wisdom, strengthen us for your work. Help us focus on Christ’s mission. Help us step beyond our comfort zone into the margins where we find those with whom we can share Christ’s peace.
Spiritual Practice: Making Responsible Choices
Prayerfully seek God’s guidance in your choices. The practice of discernment invites us to orient our lives toward God and God’s vision for us and creation. Begin by reviewing the responsibilities and opportunities in the day before you. Take these choices into prayer, asking God for wisdom and insight about what matters most.
Peace Covenant
Today, God, I will put your agenda first.
