Yesterday, I went for a wellness checkup at the doctor’s. On the way there, I remembered something I learned years ago that gave me perspective for the appointment, and beyond.

Sometimes, when I go places, I am more focused on myself than on anyone else. When I go to a doctor’s appointment, I think about wanting to hear that all is well. When I go to the store, I think about what I need to get. While those things matter, they aren’t our whole purpose for being there.

We aren’t always there just for ourselves.

Sometimes God places us in certain places, at certain moments in time, so that others can encourage us, or so that we can be a reflection of His love to others.

Remembering this yesterday shifted my perspective as I drove to the appointment. Instead of being so focused on myself, I focused on being present for others who might need a listening ear. And while I was there, a couple of people shared their stories with me, one about something challenging they are going through, and another about a loved one dying of cancer.

Being present with these people and letting them know they were seen and heard was a blessing to them, and to me.

I share this as a reminder that wherever we go, whether to the doctor’s office, the store, or an event, we aren’t just there for ourselves. I invite you to join me to…

pause. breathe. pray.

Wherever we are going, may we remember that our purpose there goes beyond what we see on the surface. Your presence matters where you are. May we pray that God helps us live aligned with His purpose for us, to be a reflection of His love to others, no matter where we are. And in doing so, may it broaden our perspective so that even what we think is a mundane appointment may actually be a divine one.

With love and hope, Shawn

“Let each of you look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” - Philippians 2:4