His disciples said to him, "Twentyfour prophets have spoken in Israel, and they all spoke of you." He said to them, "You have disregarded the living one who is in your presence, and have spoken of the dead." (52 Thomas)

Each morning I turn to something written long ago. I give it close attention. I work to listen to it, learn from it, and know its meaning for me. I love the process.

But then I turn to the remainder of my day. Am I as attentive to living expressions of God's intention? Do I listen as carefully to these very present signs, symbols, and manifestations? Do I love to engage with them? Do I love them? Not usually.

The reign of God is at hand, waiting for me to reach out for it. But I am quite often just too busy to notice.