I woke up to walk early Saturday morning before driving into the mountains to speak at a women’s retreat. It was overcast and misting: the first day the sun wasn’t shining all week. The mist was distracting. I changed my route, because the sun didn’t shine on my path quite as early as other mornings, and I didn’t want to walk alone on one of the paths in the dark.

As I left the hotel to drive into the mountains, I couldn’t see much. I’d usually focus on the mountain tops ahead, the towering walls of rocks beside the road, and the beauty of the varied trees. But my view was limited, and I was distracted by the hovering clouds.

As I drove higher into the mountains, I left the distractions behind, breaking through the mist and clouds. I reached the resort and discovered a breathtaking view.

What a blessing, I thought. Perhaps I wouldn’t be hiking or sitting outside on such a gorgeous day, but as least I got to savor the sight before retreating inside. I drove further up the resort property to find my room. I chose a seat near the back of the room, close to the only window, looked to my right and saw…

Wow! How was I ever going to concentrate throughout the day with such a view? I was sure to be distracted.

I managed through the morning session despite someone opening the door during a break and adding scents and sounds to the distractions. I savored the short walk down the mountain for lunch and back up for the afternoon session, when I was scheduled to speak.

I soon discovered the distractions of the day had just begun. As I spoke, the music of the wedding reception next door got louder and louder. My feet tapped to standard high-energy dance tunes. When Shout! started, I couldn’t contain myself any longer. I threw my hands up several times during the chorus and encouraged the women to shout to the Lord!

I vaguely remember the song list, but there’s no doubt it was distracting. However, I looked into the women’s faces, and they were listening. They were engaged, and I knew my focus was to pour into them despite the surrounding distractions.

When we focus on what’s important, distractions fade into the background.

And then there are times when the distraction becomes the focus. At one point during the afternoon, despite the booming music on the other side of the wall, a slight rustle caught my attention.

I glanced outside and noticed a slight breeze rustling through the trees, glancing light beams off leaves and whispering louder and louder. God was showing off for us. I stopped and said “Listen” to the women. We were all silent as we heard the beauty of God’s whispers through his creation. I don’t know about the other women, but I heard nothing but God in that brief moment. No music, no talking, no distractions.

When we focus on what’s important, distractions fade into the background.

What is your focus?

What you hear whispered in your ear you should shout from the housetops. Matthew 10:27