Faith | Shift your focus to hear life’s music and not the ‘buzz’
During the intermission of a choral concert, a sound system technician approached and asked if I could hear an annoying buzzing noise. He seemed quite irritated.
“No,” I replied. “I haven’t heard any extra sounds.”
He complained, “It’s wrecking the performance!”
I shrugged in response.
When the second half of the concert began, I listened intently and blocked out the beautiful melodies and harmonies that I previously enjoyed.
A constant whine emerged and funneled into my ears, as if connected by a long hose from its source. I tried to block the noise but couldn’t. I left the concert angry and frustrated! I wished the sound technician never questioned me about his concern.
I ponder and reflect on this experience often. I wonder what I am missing out on in life, because I might be focused on unimportant clatter of memories.
For example, the car who cut me off on the road, the cashier who overcharged me, and my lists of unaccomplished tasks. Perhaps, I carry a weight of concern for health of a loved one. Maybe I am fixated on world issues and politics.
If I recall these events in my life over and over again, they preoccupy my mind, and I lose focus on the present. Instead, I need to contemplate on, and consider, the wonderful and beautiful happenings around me.
How do I shift my thoughts, and let redundant irritations go?
In Hebrews 12:1-2, the author, Paul, urges us “... lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us ... Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith ... .”
As we shift our focus on our Savior, Jesus Christ, all other distractions, and displeasures will diminish. We will be able to enjoy all the good life has to offer us and more. We will notice that the beauties and marvels of this Earth will supersede the minor irritations and setbacks.
Putting Jesus Christ first in our lives, all other aspects will fall into their natural place. What the world focuses on and prioritizes will slide to the side.
What does it mean to put Jesus Christ first in your life?
Daily immersion with God’s word, supplications in prayer with him, noticing ways to serve others, and surrounding us with other believers will shape and sharpen our attention on Christ. He is always present in our lives, but we must move toward him to notice. Psalms 105:4 states, “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his face evermore.”
Can you see Christ’s influence in your life?
By shifting our focus to Christ, and actively pursuing him, we will fully appreciate the music we’re supposed to hear and feel. The static and racket will shrink. The beautiful melodies and harmonies will lift our hearts and mind to holier spheres.
