UNPACK This...Being PresentPrøve

“I’m Here Right Now” An ongoing saga took place between star running back, Jonathan Taylor and the Indianapolis Colts in 2023. Taylor was very outspoken about his displeasure with his contract situation with the Colts during the offseason. Rumors started to circulate about friction existing between Taylor and the organization, which led many to wonder about his future with them. With all of the tension, Taylor was questioned about his commitment to the team during an exchange with reporters. Taylor responded, “I’m here right now. If somebody wasn’t committed, they wouldn’t be here. And right now, I’m here and my No. 1 goal is to attack this first practice.” As followers of Jesus, we can easily lose sight of the here and now because we’re so focused on the future. And while having goals, making plans, and looking forward to future events is not inherently sinful, we must not lose sight of where we are currently. Like Jonathan Taylor, we must be able to live with a perspective that says, “I’m here right now.” In Matthew 6:34, Jesus told His followers, “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” When we get too focused on the future, it hinders our ability to focus on what is happening in the present. Often in those moments, we forget the Lord has providentially placed us where we are today so we might do all things for His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). We need to constantly remind ourselves that tomorrow isn’t promised. We might have plans for our future, but there’s no guarantee our plans will play out as we desire. Therefore, we should focus greater attention on how we can best glorify God where we are right now. So today, let’s remember that we are where we are today so we can glorify God in our current circumstances. Let’s focus on doing all that we should to make the most of our present…trusting that God will direct our steps as we move forward. I’m Matt Osborne, and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for placing me where I am today. Please help me focus on how I can best glorify You in my current situation…trusting You will lead and guide me along the path of my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.