SLOW DOWN!
The speed limit sign was unique. Never have I seen its twin. Amused at first by the unrealistic suggestion it posed, further reflection brought me to appreciate the wonderful wisdom it proclaimed.
That sign was located along the driveway to a local nursing home. While it looked like any other speed limit sign, the recommended speed is what distinguished it from all the rest. Drivers were cautioned to proceed at 2 miles per hour. That’s right- 2 miles per hour. Obviously, the implication of that unusual warning was – SLOW DOWN!
In a world where speed reigns, being busy is applauded, instant communication is a must and a hectic pace seems to be the norm, could it be that the unique speed sign at a senior care facility offers a meaningful message for all? SLOW DOWN!
When we do slow down and take our time, it’s amazing what we just might see. Much of what is always around us may come into sharper focus.
My prayer is that all of us would SLOW DOWN and take the time to experience and soak up:
– the beauty of God’s remarkable creation
– the privilege of waking up to a new day
– the joys of meaningful relationships with family and friends
– the blessing of rest and relaxation
– the innocence of children
– the wisdom of seniors
– the wonder of forgiveness
– the thrill of serving
– the satisfaction of being present to someone in need
– the power of God’s love
– the possibilities in a pandemic
SLOW DOWN, friends of Dial Hope, and enjoy each new day.
Let us pray: Sometimes life seems like a race, Lord, a rat race. Like it or not, we may feel as if we are stuck in the fast lane, doing our best to keep up with the demands, the expectations, the challenges that never seem to end. Help us to slow down so we might see the wonders that surround us and grant us that peace that only you can give. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Daily Message Author: Eric Wogen
Pastor Eric Wogen was born in Chicago, Illinois, and claims mid-western roots, even though he lived in many different places while growing up due to his father’s employment with the Pennsylvania Railroad. A graduate of Radnor High School in suburban Philadelphia, he received an AB in History from Gettysburg College and a MDiv degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. His first call was to a wonderfully affirming congregation in Sellersville, PA, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Ridge Valley, where he joyfully served until being called as Assistant to the Bishop of the Southeastern Synod (LCA). He returned to parish ministry in 1979 when he was called to serve St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Hanover, PA. After more than twenty years at St. Matthew, he was called by St. Armand’s Key Lutheran Church in Sarasota, Florida to be its pastor and served there until his retirement in 2008. Full Bio
