Solving the Wrong Problem
November 20, 2019 by lf
It happened again today. It’s not the first time. For days, we have been trying to juggle how to have everyone in the right spot at the right time tonight. Two adults, try as they may, weren’t able to find a positive scenario where everyone arrives where they are supposed to be at ghe right time. At this point, you are probably thinking this post is about over commitment. I could write that post, but, today, I am reflecting on something else. Today, I am reflecting on how many times I worry about the wrong thing.
You see, one of the events was cancelled today. There was no issue about who was to be where at a particular time. Hours of thought and worry across our family were completely in vain. And, it’s not the first time. On so many occasions, I have worried about all sorts of things only to have the problem be something else entirely. While my mind was occupied with the “problem”, the real item that needed attention went neglected. So, tonight, I am reflecting on the time that I have wasted across years worrying about the wrong thing.
Luke 10: 40-42
40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
I’m in good company. Martha was distracted by the preparations and worried about her sister’s effort. She completely missed that Jesus was in her household. What have I missed across the years by being distracted by the wrong things? The temptation to get caught up in the daily mundane is distraction. I pray that I am more intentional about my actions and that I spend less time distracted by things that absolutely do not matter when the things that do matter are all around me.