I have tried to maintain the ability to “check in” when traveling. I have made contact with individuals through a variety of ways.
In high school, I occasionally checked in with my parents by phone from a landline. In college, we contacted other drivers by CB radio as we traveled the interstate. In Europe this past October, my daughter and I stayed in touch with friends and family through our personal cell phones.
Each of those methods of checking in afforded opportunities to stay in touch, offer peace of mind, and even deepen a relationship. Checking in is healthy for personal relationships. Touching base says, “You are on my mind. I want to see how you are.”
Jesus modeled a very important method of checking in. As He traveled this earth to reveal the Father, disciple His followers, and redeem humanity from their sin, He prayed often. He was staying in touch with the Father.
In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there.
Mark 1:35
If you remember the first chapter of Mark, it records a solitary day of Jesus’ ministry. Everything He did was physically taxing and emotionally draining while experiencing spiritual conflict. He taught in the synagogue. He cast out a demon. Crowds gathered. He healed Peter’s mother-in-law. Jesus was exhausting himself in ministry.
How did He respond? Jesus got up early. He chose to spend time in prayer. He checked in. He needed the strength of the Spirit. He needed the guidance of the Father. He needed to rest in the security of the Father’s love.
I know that my life is different when I am checking in with the Father. The more I pray, the more I am aware of His presence. The more I pray, the easier it is to lean on the Spirit to look temptation in the eye and say “No” to ungodly choices.
I encourage you to follow our Lord’s example. Talk to the Father early in the morning to set your day. Pray for direction in daily decisions. Seek the Spirit’s help as you walk into a room to meet with people. Checking in is healthy for our most important personal relationship.
Love and blessings,
Dave