"Look at your neighbor and tell them, 'You need to lighten up!"
Laughter could be heard all over the sanctuary as people followed the pastor's directions. My daughter and I didn't say the words, we just smiled at each other both of us knowing we have a tendency to take things a little too seriously.
When you see life as one long to do list, it is more work to take a break and do something fun, than it is to just keep working. No matter how many studies show that it is important to have balance, even when you have experienced the benefits of that balance-change is hard.
On Thursday, my daughters invited me to go do something fun with them on Saturday. I said I would like to go, but I would have to see. Then on Saturday, I asked if they could wait while I just did one more thing. They were very patient with me but I could tell they could see through me. Although I realized what I was doing, 'delaying fun', I kept doing it.
Finally we went and had a wonderful time. On the drive home I thanked God for the example my girls were setting for me in fun and work balance. I really can see that the work and routine of the week can be more bearable when you having something pleasant ahead of you.
Pile your troubles on God’s shoulders—
he’ll carry your load, he’ll help you out.
He’ll never let good people
topple into ruin.
Psalm 55:22 MSG
Dear Lord, thank You for bearing with me as I take life and responsibilities too seriously. I do know that I can not add even an hour to my life. Please help me to see all of the reminders around me that You are a loving and caring God. I choose to stop trusting in my own strength to get things done as if I can actually make anything of the utmost importance happen. Please forgive me for the pride and fear that keep me striving. In Jesus name, amen.
PS: Pastor Steve's very next phrase, after we told each other to lighten up?
"Lightening up is not an excuse to be lazy." Again with the whole balance thing!!
Written by Mary M. Wilkins
Love Take Me Over by Steven Curtis Chapman
Sometimes we get overly focused on the desired achievements we have and the need to finish highlighting completed items on our daily lists. Because of this we cannot even take a moment to relax and enjoy life. One of the needs of human life is to be able to rest and regroup. A list is good but I dare you all to leave at least one highlighted item on our list every day to complete another time while you breathe deeply and take time to replenish. I dare you...I double dare you...I even dare me...lol
ReplyDeleteGod bless...