Not long ago something came up that added to my already way too long to do list. A feeling of being overwhelmed and way too busy started to come over me. I knew I needed to nip that feeling in the bud because it wasn't going to go any place good or productive.
I decided to run an errand so I could get out and process some of my thoughts and feelings. That didn't take care of it. Later that morning I got on my hands and knees to scrub the bathroom floor. Thoughts kept tumbling through my heart and mind. I've found that mindless housework is a good time for me to mull over these kinds of feelings.
Here's the essence of what floated through my mind and heart that day.
The scripture about Mary and Martha in Luke 10: 38-42
"Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
Much has been written about these verses. What I thought about in this instance was that Martha was "cumbered" by her serving. Jesus commented that she was full of care (careful) and "troubled about many things." He acknowledged her concerns and then he gave a lesson in priorities and putting first things first. I could write much more about various ways all this can be interpreted but in this instance the Spirit was telling me not to feel troubled or cumbered and to be mindful of priorities - people over things (or tasks on a to do list).
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"And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man [or woman] should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order." (Mosiah 4:27)
I must need this reminder a lot because this scripture comes to me frequently. This time I was reminded of the importance of pacing myself and being aware of my "strength."
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I was reminded of the importance of studying the scriptures so that the Holy Ghost can bring them to my mind at times like this. I like quotes and good thoughts from a variety sources. But I find the scriptures usually bring a greater connection to God. I can't always articulate what I'm being taught but I know there's counsel being given.
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