Batteries: Friend or Foe?

In the wake of Christmas, I thought this devotion would be timely.  I noticed that many websites are currently having a sale on storage bins.  What a convenience after accruing new holiday gifts!  It does beg the question about the value of a toy that just ends up at the bottom of a bin though.

My current conundrum is the battery operated toy.  If you are like me, you have them coming out of every nook and cranny of the house.  I think I could get a full-time job just ordering, stocking, and replacing batteries.  And you know you need special screw drivers for different toys.  And then your toddler wants to "help" change the batteries, and you are worried that this fun "learning" experience will become an eye-gouging one.


This is too funny, but relatable, right?

I have to wonder how much time these toys, which are meant to encourage my children's development, actually function as distractions.  I want to see beyond the nifty rift and flashing lights and have more quality time with my children.  We as adults often have this struggle in our own lives too.  It is hard to tune out the many conveniences that were meant to enhance our lives but somehow contribute to their chaoticness.  As I look at my children, I want to help foster a different kind of world in my house.  Bring on the old fashioned puppets.

Prayer:  Dear God, Remind me in the coming week to seek out moments of quality time with my family.  The temptation for distraction is alluring, but often ends in emptiness and frustration.  Jesus applauded Mary who was willing to simply sit at his feet.  Direct my efforts toward the pursuit of simplification so that quality attention can communicate love.  In Jesus' name, Amen.

"But the Lord answered her, 'Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing.  Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her'"  (Luke 10:41-42, NRSV).