Initiative

Automobile technology has advanced so much since I started driving. Now we have cars that start without a key in the ignition, cars that parallel park themselves, cars with rear view cameras, and GPS that directs you to your destination. I'm sure they will have some sort of autopilot feature soon, where one just has to punch in the destination, sit back, and watch a DVD or play on a computer while the car takes over driving.

When life becomes so automated, we lose our drive. When we don't need to take the initiative to even keep track of our keys, turn the ignition, turn our heads to look for obstacles, remember directions, or develop parking skills, we become detached from the whole process. Active engaged drivers turn into passive passengers.

Maintaining relationships takes motivation. We need to keep track of key principles like sacrificial love, generosity, acceptance, and empathy. We have to initiate contact, to reach out, to ignite the spark between ourselves and others.

The same metaphor applies to our relationship with God. It's easy to slip into an auto pilot mode, repeating the same prayers, while being distracted by trivial pursuits. We can become unaware of our surroundings, make no effort to study directions from God, or develop the discipline of resting in His presence.

If automation is making you disconnected, it's time to shift gears. Do whatever it takes to stay awake. Stay engaged.