Dear COA Family,
One important attitude we need to develop is the ability
to recognise what truly matters and to prioritise our time
and energy accordingly.
Why is this so important?
Many people today find themselves constantly following
global news — especially ongoing conflicts around the
world. Each new development becomes a headline that
seems to signal uncertainty or even crisis. Markets fluctuate,
oil prices rise and fall, and anxiety spreads quickly. It is easy
to find ourselves checking updates repeatedly, discussing
possibilities and worrying about what might happen next.
Yet, living in constant reaction to headlines can drain our
emotional energy and distract us from what truly matters.
Most of us have little influence over global events. But we
do have a responsibility over how we live, how we steward
our time and how we care for the people God has placed
around us. When we allow distant events to dominate our
attention, we may unintentionally neglect our families, our
work, our health and our walk with God.
For some, distractions may come in the form of social media.
It is easy to spend long periods scrolling through updates,
comparing lifestyles or following debates that do not directly
affect our lives. Before we realise it, valuable time that could
have been spent in meaningful conversations, rest, prayer or
reflection has slipped away.
For others, distractions may even come from good things.
Work responsibilities can expand endlessly. Family
commitments, volunteering and social obligations can all
compete for attention. While these are meaningful pursuits,
we must still discern what is most important. Our time and
energy are limited and, without intentional prioritisation,
we may end up busy but spiritually depleted.
The Apostle Paul reminds us of what is truly important. He writes,
“I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our
sins, that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day”
(1 Cor 15:3). Paul directs believers back to the heart of the gospel.
Amid competing teachings and distractions, he calls them to hold
firmly to what matters most.
The same principle applies to us today. We must keep the main thing
the main thing. Our relationship with God, our faith in Christ, our love
for family, our integrity at work and our care for others — these are
the things that truly shape our lives.
Take a moment to reflect on the past few weeks. What has occupied
your thoughts? What has consumed your time? Have the urgent things
crowded out the important ones? Have distractions replaced devotion?
If so, this is a good time to reset. Refocus on what truly matters. Spend
time with the Lord. Be present with your loved ones. Share the gospel
with those around you this Easter.
God bless,
Revd Ian