Red Means Stop

From an early age we have learned this important rule of the road. When the traffic light is red, stop.

What do you do while waiting in traffic? As I glanced around this afternoon, I saw a teenager on a cellphone, a young gentlemen drumming his impatience into a steering wheel, and a woman turned around to admonish her young passenger; each of these playing their part in this sixty-second commercial of life in the twenty first century.

How many stop lights do you encounter each day? While walking, biking, sitting in a bus or in your own vehicle most of us are so enthralled in our own thoughts, plans or worries, we would find it difficult to recall the number of times we were halted by that red glow. Those minutes spent waiting in traffic can accumulate quickly.

Next time invite God to enter into your red light oasis. Yes, an oasis. Turn this moment into an opportunity to refresh your spirit. Reflect on the gifts the Lord has given to you. There is joy to be found in the warmth of a sunny day or in the song of cleansing rain. Rejoice in recollections of time with family and friends who enhance your earthly journey and be grateful for these. Find peace in a minute of quiet time for just you and God. Say a prayer.

When the traffic light is red, stop and listen to the call of the Father. He has so much to share with you in a minute.