Six hours till D-day. In six hours we go on statewide lockdown. We are ordered to stay at home, all of us, except for those deemed essential. So, who — and what — is essential? On the Washington.gov website there’s a document that provides some answers. I was surprised at how many workers are considered to be vital –critical to the minimal functioning of life. Medical providers and health-care workers. Of course. Food growers and processors and transporters and retailers. Aren’t you glad? We all like to eat, don’t we? Emergency services workers. Plumbers and electricians. Well, if your pipes break and your house is flooding, its nice to know there’s a plumber on call. Bankers, court employees, hotel workers even. Marijuana distributors and retailers. Mental health professionals. People who build houses. Public safety workers. Its a long list, really, and its nice to know that even artists and musicians are on that list. Artists and musicians! Somebody in the governor’s office understands that beauty is essential during a time of crisis. On down the list I read, but when I was finished, there was something missing. So I re-read the whole document, but what I was looking for was not there. Not a single mention of God or faith or anything to do with that. Nothing, nada, zip. Evidently the one thing that Jesus said is MOST critical — seeking God and His righteousness — is not even on the governor’s radar. And that got me to thinking — how is it for me? And for you? What is the most essential thing about life for us? It’s worth thinking about. “But seek first His kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:33