The dreaded call came mid-morning. It was what we had feared. The test was positive. The flu had come to our home. Erica has been symptomatic and missed school yesterday. Her mom was hoping at the worst it would be a sinus infection. But no, it is the flu.

None of us have felt right for several days and have admitted fighting off “something.” Over the counter medications are lined up on the kitchen counter next to the sink.

As the day has progressed so have my symptoms … all the usual suspects. Then suddenly I’ll feel better and tell myself it’s all in my head. But my years of living have taught me that we may all be on the sofa under the afghan before the week is out.

Anticipating this happening I ate my lunch while I worked to give me time to run errands during my normal lunch time. Library books were waiting to be checked out and the cats have to eat! And they have to have what they like and need (two of the three require prescription food). And they have to get their monthly dose of Frontline. We didn’t want the flu but we certainly don’t want fleas!

Driving to the pet food store I noticed I was speeding down the interstate. I felt an urgency akin to making sure there are flashlight batteries, bread, sandwich meat, and bottled water in the house as a hurricane approaches.

Urgency. Several New Testament scriptures began to flood my thoughts. We are instructed to live with such urgency that we are ready when Jesus comes again. As I slowed my driving I also slowed my thinking to contemplate these teachings.

With my words and with my life I need to share the love of God and the reconciliation Jesus offers. What about you?