June 30 , 2007

“Seek Ye First” . . . The Ever-Present To Do List

Do you find yourself trying to finish one more task, wash one more dish, fold one more load of laundry or wipe down one more counter top, all the while your child is tugging on your shirt, persistently calling, “Mommy, Mommy, come see!” With a sigh you respond, “Let me finish just one more thing, and I'll be there.” Ten minutes pass (and four “one more things” later), frustrated they return saying, “Mommy, are you coming?” Realizing you've forgotten, and yet pulled to complete the task at hand, you follow them out (grabbing a dishtowel and dish to dry on the way) to watch their newly discovered way to break their neck on the trampoline!

Why is it so hard to make time for the things that are the most important? Although I know my kids need me to stop and play, listen or watch, I have such a hard time doing so. I just want to finish that “one more thing.” The problem is that just as I finish that “one more” task another one takes its place. Somehow, I have the false illusion that maybe today I'll be able to finish my “to do” list, and give focused attention to my child without distraction. In my dreams!

Not only do I “put off” my children, but I also “put off” my time with God. I know my need to sit with Him on a daily basis, focus on Him throughout the day, and yet so many days I am more concerned about my “to do list” than meeting with God Almighty. Can you relate?

Over the past couple of weeks my days have seemed very chaotic. I've experienced the inability to accomplish what needs to be done. I've felt overwhelmed, defeated and discouraged. But when I finally stopped to think about it, where was my focus? On my “to do” list, of course! Matthew 6:33-34a reminds me, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” When I keep my eyes on Jesus, the tumultuous seas of my life seem to calm.

I have a challenge for you, whether it is 5 minutes or 35 minutes, for the next week, focus on God first ! You may need to write that on your mirror to remind you to stop and spend time with Him. Try reading His Word first thing in the morning. Let me know if you'll accept the challenge, and then how God uses this time to work in your life, home and relationships! I'll be praying for you!

May God grant you peace even though you may not finish your “to do” list today!

-Laurie