Simplify

Last Updated on March 21, 2018

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 (NASB)

We are busy moms, aren’t we? It strikes me that the verses above don’t say, “What does the Lord require of you but to clean the kitchen, do the laundry, work full-time, get the groceries, sign the kids up for soccer, sign the kids up for football, sign the kids up for piano, drive the kids to ballet, go to the pool twice a week in the summer, do craft projects with the kids daily, host the company Christmas party, and … so on.

Rather, God’s list is pretty short. Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly with God. Maybe it’s time to pare down my to-do list.

Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42 (ESV)

Are you anxious and troubled about many things–even good things like serving others? Are you missing the one thing?

Entering the holiday season this year, I’m issuing a challenge. Moms, let’s find some ways to simplify our lives. I’m not sure how, but maybe we could say no to a party. Decorate more sparingly. Give fewer and simpler gifts. Stay home with our families. Spend less money. Spend more time with those we love. Be content with what we have. Make time for the one thing. Sit at the feet of Jesus and learn from Him!