YOUR "ONE THING"
On a late-night television show, the host asked hotel magnate Conrad Hilton, “If you could say one thing to the American people, what would it be?”
Hilton replied, “When you take a shower at one of my hotels, please place the shower curtain inside the bathtub.” Really? That’s his one request? Nothing about world peace? But, then again, this one appeal potentially could save his hotel chain thousands of dollars in upkeep.
That got me thinking. How would I respond if someone asked me, “What’s your one thing?” The obvious “church answer” is: “Love the Lord with all your heart.” (Matthew 22:37). That’s true, but let’s dive deeper. How does this translate into daily life?
David phrased it like this: “One thing only do I want: to live in the Lord's house all my life, to marvel there at his goodness.” (Psalm 27:4). Passionately living in God’s presence. Sounds pretty good.
In different seasons of life, our “one thing” might change. Serving a spouse in a health crisis; battling addiction; or simply slowing down and enjoying nature—sometimes our “one thing” comes in unexpected ways.
When my grandson Liam was four, he begged me for a bedtime story. My energy level was emptier than a dry gas tank, but the look in his eyes compelled me. I delivered a dramatic rendering of The Three Little Pigs, rivaling a Shakespearian actor. Afterwards, I sensed the Lord saying, “That was the most important thing you did today!”
I laughed. At least ten things came to mind, surpassing the importance of my literary performance. I never would have considered such a crazy thought. But often, God’s “one thing” and mine, don’t match. I smiled, sensing God’s pleasure with my sacrifice. There’s no greater joy than aligning our lives with his “one thing”—whether it’s The Three Pigs, or a shower curtain. So … what’s your “one thing?”
Ponder:
What is the “one thing” for me that never changes?
During this season if life, how do I apply that “one thing” to my current situation?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Matthew 22:34-40.
Lord, shape me according to your unique call on my life. Let my ‘one thing’ align with your purpose for me.