Late last week, I was mesmerized while watching a squirrel run from one tree to another.

The squirrel darted forward toward its desired location (another tree,) paused, stood up, changed course and ran into another direction, paused, scratched the ground, then repeated this chaotic behavior several more times, before turning back to its previous direction and eventually finding its way to the tree it originally wanted to reach and climb.

It seemed like so much energy was wasted. There were almost meaningless distractions delaying the final arrival to the intended destination.

I found myself thinking that this squirrel’s behavior is like many of us (including me) at times. We know that our final destination is heaven, but as we journey, we become distracted here and there by things that may not really be important. We can find ourselves at times moving closer in our relationship with God, but then stop as we get preoccupied with challenges or obstacles in life, seemingly wasting energy and losing our focus on what is important, loving God and each other.

Yet, there remains God, patiently and lovingly waiting for us, despite the chaotic steps we take in our journey towards Him.

May we each keep focused on where we are headed. Unlike a squirrel, may we not be distracted by life’s trappings on the way.

By: Deacon Tom Gryzbek