Meet Me at the Playground: Let’s Jump Rope

So do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 12:2

We jumped rope on the courtyard of our elementary school. We always brought our own ropes, but we really liked to jump with the heavy long rope thrown by two of our friends. Remember?

Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, turn around.

Teddy Bear, Teddy Bear, touch the ground.

The real challenge came when the two holders threw hot pepper. They deliberately threw faster and faster until you were exhausted or missed. What fun! Remember?

Mable, Mable, set the table.

Don’t forget the hot pepper!

Today’s verse admonishes us about conforming to the pattern of this world. The pattern of this world is hot pepper. Faster and faster we jump trying not to stumble as we go through each twenty-four hours.

The technological age is great. I can text my granddaughters, talk with and skype anyone, anywhere. We can watch movies, buy stocks, chat on Facebook, and Google any subject. I could go on and on presenting the marvels of this age.

The downside of the technological age is that it adds to the rat race. I cringe when I see a family in a restaurant with the dad lost in conversation on his Iphone while the rest of the family is ignored. I am heart broken when I observe mothers walking with their children at my recreation area. Sharing the beauty of God’s nature is forgotten as the moms chat endlessly on their phones.

Many children sit at their computers for hours while more worthwhile activities take a back seat. Outside play takes a backseat to the endless hours spent playing video games.

All of the modern conveniences are meant to save us time. I’m afraid the extra time is spent frivolously. Whoa! Don’t take my computer away. Still, I am afraid that we jump through life at hot pepper speed.

What does God say about this dilemma? We were meant to praise God throughout the day. From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised 

(Psalm 113:3). That should slow us down a bit. When our eyes are on the Lord, we tend to make better decisions.

Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word (Psalm 119:37). The psalmist pleads with God to help him set priorities. This is a good thing for us, too. Time-wasting habits are hard to break. We need the strength God gives to guide us each day.

Dear Father, Help us lead our families to meaningful activities in our lives. Teach us to slow the hot pepper lifestyle to one which pleases you.

Janice Yandell