Have a good day

I like to go running three times a week. I have a variety of midweek short routes, then, for a treat on Saturdays, I get to run for 10-12 miles in the beautiful countryside around Basingstoke.

I always run first thing in the morning, and as I repeat the routes each week, I can often see the same people, either walking a dog or heading off to work.

There is a lovely older gentleman I see most weeks and our conversation is pretty much the same.

We both say, ‘Good morning’, followed by a brief comment on the days weather. As we pass and say our goodbyes, without fail he says, ‘have a good day’. I say, ‘thank you, and you too!’

I have been thinking, what makes ‘a good day’. Sometimes I fantasise that if I received a great deal of money anonymously, that would be a very good day!

To be honest, for me, a good day, is when I get a lot of things done on my list! I am naturally a task-oriented person, so getting things crossed off the list is very satisfying!

However, I am very aware that each day is a mixed bag. There are things that I do, but often other things come my way that are unexpected. So a good day is dependent on how I respond to what happens.

Do I treat people in a way that honours them and pleases God? How do I manage my time? Is it productive, restorative or wasted? Of course, there are always menial tasks that we all have to do.

As a Christian, am I mindful, or aware, of what God is doing? Do I perceive ‘interruptions’ as part of God’s bigger plan and purposes?

Once when Jesus was challenged by some of his actions, he replied…

“My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.”
— John 5:17 The NIV Bible

Jesus was not saying he was a workaholic, because elsewhere in the Bible it says that he rested, was never rushed and often withdrew from all he was doing.

I believe Jesus was saying that God, His Father, was actively involved with stuff here on the earth. I have seen that God is still at work in people and situations today.

I try to be mindful of this in my daily life. Where is God working, what is He up to, and how best can I join in with that?

So, a good day is one where I have been aware of what God is doing and partnered with Him wherever I can. It’s also good when I know I have treated people well and, of course, it’s topped off by getting things done on my list.

Have a good day!

God bless you :)

Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader

Gary Bastin