These are two words that I heard a lot growing up.  Even at times:

“Pay Attention.  Your life may one day depend upon it.”

Growing up in a military family can be very different.  For me, I have always had a military mindset – thinking ahead – aware of my surroundings.

My father use to take us on camping trips – the trips called “Survival Training!”  He would take us out at night and then leave us to find our way back to camp.  Four kids at the time – three boys and one girl (me).  It was scary.  But we learned how to pay attention.  For many years I didn’t realize that my father was never far away – keeping his eyes upon us.  I thought we were alone – but he was there.

My Scripture for today is about awareness too:

Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the LORD is in this place, and I wasn’t even aware of it!” But he was also afraid and said, “What an awesome place this is! It is none other than the house of God, the very gateway to heaven.” – Genesis 28:16-17 (NLT)

Have you ever not been aware – fully aware – of the Presence of God?  Or have you never been aware of his Presence?

Would you be surprised if God spoke to you?

It is so important to pay attention.  To know what is going on around you.

If you have never truly been aware of God’s Presence, then today would be a good day to start paying attention – searching – asking for him to open your eyes – your spiritual eyes.

My song.  Yes, to feel his presence.  May your eyes be opened today – aware of his Holy Presence.

Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place