Hello there, beautiful souls!

As we approach the 4th of July weekend, a time traditionally spent with family, grilling in the backyard, enjoying fireworks, and celebrating our freedoms, I find myself reflecting on a different sort of independence—the freedom to choose what we focus our attention on and, in turn, what we end up worshiping.

Every ten years, my family embarks on a special journey, one that has become a beloved tradition. Seventeen family members, a lake house, and countless shared moments spanning two decades. It's a time that we've consciously set aside to focus our attention on each other, to reinforce the bonds that unite us, and to celebrate the love that defines us.

Now, you may be wondering: what's the connection between a family vacation and worship? Let me unpack this. I firmly believe that what we choose to pay attention to becomes what we worship.

Worship is about more than religious rituals or spiritual practices—it's about what captures our attention, what we value and prioritize. Essentially, it's what we 'serve'. Every person, regardless of their beliefs or lifestyle, worships something, be it money, success, power, relationships, or even social media.

In our family, despite the individual paths we've all taken and the unique journeys we're on, we've always directed our collective attention towards God and family. We believe that serving the Lord means nurturing and cherishing the bonds we share, and thus, we've chosen to 'worship' this unit of togetherness and love.

This doesn't mean we're worshiping our family in a literal sense, but rather, we're expressing reverence and adoration for this God-given gift. We've consciously chosen to focus our energy on fostering these relationships, and our family gatherings are a testament to this commitment.

So, as we look forward to the 4th of July weekend, a time when families across the country come together to celebrate and enjoy each other's company, I encourage you to reflect on what you're choosing to pay attention to. Be mindful that this attention becomes what you worship, shaping a significant part of who you are.

We all have the freedom to decide what deserves our focus, our time, our energy. Let's ensure it's something that enriches our lives, lifts us up, and aligns with the values we hold dear.

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever had an 'aha' moment about what you're truly worshiping in your life? Feel free to share in the comments. And if this post resonates with you, consider sharing it with your friends as we celebrate this weekend of family and freedom.

Here's to choosing wisely, growing beautifully, and celebrating the freedoms we hold dear. Happy 4th of July, everyone!

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