Everywhere we turn in our world today, people are in a hurry. People are proud to tell you just how busy they are in their lives, and I don’t think this is a good thing. We all live in a busy world, but have we missed the point sometimes because we are all so busy?
I think it is important to cure this hurry sickness because when we are not in a hurry, we can truly be present to the One who is always present.
The story that sticks out to me is found in Luke 10:38-42. Jesus is visiting Martha and Mary’s house and Mary is sitting at the feet of Jesus listening, but Martha is busy, hurrying around the house, worrying, and being upset. Jesus tells Martha that Mary is doing what is good and right because He knows it is only at the feet of Christ that we can find peace for our worry.
We give Martha a hard time in this story, but most of us in this world are just like her. I wonder sometimes if we are so distracted by our busyness and we miss what really matters: hearing Jesus.
So how do we cure this hurry sickness?
1. We look to Jesus. – Jesus clearly understood His mission, and His own limits. He didn’t heal everybody. He set aside large segments of time for prayer, and the mentoring of the 12. These things became what mattered to Him and I think it was key to keep him from hurry sickness.
2. Know your person rhythms. – What part of the day should you work harder because you are more awake and focused? When are you more exhausted and need to take a break? Learn to rest when you need to rest and work when you need to work.
3. Get to your calendar before anybody else can. – Have good criteria for choosing what you put in your calendar and what gets left out. Seek simplicity and contentment. It is okay to say the word “No” sometimes.
I believe that we need margin and discernment in our lives to grow in our relationship with God. Because without it you cannot hear the whisper of the God that loves you.
Why do you think getting rid of hurry in your life matters? How can we do a better job of getting it out of our lives?
~Blake
Complete in Christ 