So much to do and so little time to get it all accomplished! I am a doer and a worker-bee, as my husband would say. Yes, without a doubt, that indeed is me! I am always involved in this group or that project, having millions of thoughts running through my mind regarding objectives, checklists, tasks, contacts, and of course the list just goes on and on.
Do you know someone like this? You probably do. These are the individuals who never really stop to take a break. They are always on the go to an activity, meeting or planning the next event. Don’t you just want to say to them BE STILL, STOP AND ENJOY THE MOMENT? Well, maybe that person is you! Doesn’t it getting really exhausting trying to hold all that information together and actually be successful with the outcomes? We can be so busy doing all day and all night long that we never enjoy what the Lord has given us: an opportunity to receive.
How often we choose to let doing consume us instead of enjoying and being present in the events of our lives. Think about those birthday parties or special occasion events we plan for our loved ones. We pull out all the stops and prepare for the guest to be wowed. Staying up late and driving all over town trying to pick out the perfect matching items to make sure everything is immaculate. The day of the event, we are still checking off the list but we are so tired and stressed that we actually miss out on appreciating the time with our family and friends who we spent so much time preparing for.
Let’s take a moment to personally assess: What was the real purpose for the event? Are all those items on the checklist really required or needful? Would not your loved ones rather have you laughing and talking with them than perspiring with sweat and being disgusted because the writing on the cake was the wrong color?
I am reminded of the story shared in the Bible about Mary and Martha, two sisters who were on a mission. Luke 10:38-42: 38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. 39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. 40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” 41 But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Martha’s goals were to be a gracious host, make sure that her guests were taken care of and had everything they needed. Mary’s goals were to be mindful, aware and engaged in listening attentively to their guest Jesus Christ so as to gain an understanding of his teachings.
Was either sister wrong in their goals? No, but as Jesus spoke with Martha, he shared with her that when we get so caught up with worry in the details we miss the “good part.” In Martha’s eagerness to serve, she was missing the opportunity to truly know him.
As I leave you today, I must take my own medicine and remember the “good part” should always be at the top of my list. I often times get so caught up in planning and preparation that I miss the true purpose of love and service.
Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. James 4:14
Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional
Jackie Warner, Community/Career Outreach Specialist
The Bridge “Where Community Matters”
Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com
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