During those sporting events where the contest is divided into quarters, there seems to be some merit in taking a break half way through to assess the game plan, then come back to finish out with fresh legs. I am now at half-time.

Twenty days of the Forty Day pursuit are behind me and twenty to go. I know days always come and go, usually unnoticed. I have actually been alive for over 19,000 of those 24 hour periods myself. But, when taking on a concentrated program with daily objectives like this, it has reminded me that 40 days is a long time. Thanks to all of you who have indulged me and have conversed with me about things like, “What is God’s reason for putting us here?” And, “What is most important?”

One additional specific goal I have is going to be hard for me to accomplish. Experts say if you tell someone else the plan, you are more likely to achieve it. I am going to go to bed one of these next 20 nights and when I wake up I will do nothing electronic for 24 hours. No TV, no cell phone, no iPod, no email, no computer, no tweeting, no – none of it. I hope to hear people and God in the old fashion way.

In the meantime, the people I have been talking to during this exercise have reminded me that people are important to God. People are important to people too. We should be aware of God’s direct involvement in our lives through the Holy Spirit. Yes, we are here to love and serve God, but God is also here to provide for His children – freely receive! Reconcile, restore and rebuild broken friendships. Learn to love others just like Jesus loves His church.

I have elected to receive to start the second half.