By: Jackie Warner
So much to do and so little time to get it all accomplished. I am a doer and a worker bee, 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? Yes, you 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 long and all night long that we never enjoy what the Lord has given us an opportunity to receive. How often do 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 guests 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 for whom we spent so much time preparing. 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 had 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. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. 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.” But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 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 and 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, as to gain an understanding of his teachings. Was either sister wrong in her 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 oftentimes 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
By: Jackie Warner
Career Development Facilitator
“Impact, Engage, Grow” Community Matters
