I am the type of person who loves to work. Sometimes I am so much that way that I find my value in how much I get done. Work is a good thing, but I have to be sure that I find my identity and value in Jesus.
Recently we’ve been hosting a boy from a different country. At first, it was kind of hard for me to accept that Kinza was his favorite. Then it hit me why. She spent a lot of time playing with him and giving him attention. Usually, I was so consumed with what I needed to get done, that I didn’t take a lot of extra time for him. There is definitely a balance to everything; I don’t have to be everyone’s favorite, but this scenario really made me think about my priorities. What is more important- checking everything off my “to-do” list, or sacrificing myself to serve the people around me?
“Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about with much serving, and came to Him and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42
This story was is so convicting for me. Jesus commended Mary for her willingness to sit and worship Him. Martha’s serving was a good thing too, but there was a higher priority that Jesus had for her- worshiping Him.
How can we know what should have top priority? I don’t claim to have the answers, but these are some things that I have found helpful.
1. Be sure to take time for Jesus. Make this the MOST important part of your day. Don’t try to fit quiet time/personal devotions into your day, put it there first. Even if it means getting up earlier.
2. Have a time in your day to relax. This might not be practical for everyone, but because of my tendencies to put too much pressure on myself, I like to take an hour or so in the afternoon or evening to read or do something relaxing. Don’t push yourself all day.
3. Spend time investing in others. Be very intentional about spending time with others. Often. Whether it’s simply your siblings or your children, take time to do something special for them and show them that they are important.
I would love to hear from you all- what are practical ways you keep your priorities right? -Ginger
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