Freely Speaking with Laura

If you’re anything like me, as you read this, you probably brush your teeth while picking up toys and putting away yesterday’s laundry. You’re in the middle of answering a text and settling an argument between kiddos—you multi-task while multi-tasking. I, too, am one of those people who never sits still. I stress over every detail and have perpetual to-do lists in multiple locations. I am like Martha, always wanting everything done perfectly.

When Jesus visited the home of His friends Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, Martha scrambled to make sure all her guests were well cared for and angrily chided her sister for not joining her frantic efforts. Instead of agreeing with Martha’s complaining, Jesus tells her not to worry and be upset by all the details. He reminds her there is only one thing worth being concerned about and tells her Mary found it. (Luke 10:41-2 NLT)

I’ve heard many sermons from these verses aimed at telling us to slow down and ward off busyness. It sometimes left me confused because the Bible is also full of verses encouraging us to work hard. I’ve learned that being busy isn’t necessarily the issue. Mary was also busy, intently listening to and adoring Jesus. Many times, our issue isn’t being too busy; it is what we are choosing to be busy doing.

Like Martha, we become frantic, frustrated, and exhausted when busy with the wrong things. They may even be good things. Sitting with Jesus and hearing His words of love and encouragement is a life-giving activity. While we spend time in His presence, He fills us with joy and peace. He lifts burdens from our shoulders and gives us His strength to do the tasks He has asked of us.

If you're exhausted, look at your to-do lists. Where is Jesus on those lists? Take time to sit with Him; adore Him. Let Him speak life over your weary bones. He loves you and wants to help carry your burdens. Now, go get busy!