Finding Rest for Our Souls

I take the Boy Scout motto "Be prepared" to new heights. When Jason and I go for a longer hike, I often load the backpacks with anything and everything we might need—a first aid kit, blankets, flashlights, extra clothing, food, water, and even a whistle. Sometimes, I go overboard and have the packs so heavy we can't carry them.

I over-plan and over-prepare for everything, whether a hiking trip or a dinner party. I get so caught up in anticipating every possible need or problem that I forget to simply enjoy being.

I'll spend hours preparing for a Bible study or church event, ensuring every detail is perfect. But by the time the event rolls around, I'm so exhausted and frazzled that I can barely keep my eyes open, let alone fully engage with what's happening. And that's when I remember the story of Martha in Luke 10.

Martha was busy preparing for Jesus' visit, ensuring everything was perfect. But in the process, she missed out on spending time with Him. Her sister Mary, on the other hand, sat at Jesus' feet and listened to His teachings. When Martha complained to Jesus about her sister, He gently reminded her that Mary had chosen the better thing.

It's good to be prepared, but there's a fine line between being prepared and obsessive. And when we cross that line, we risk missing out on the very thing we're trying so hard to prepare for—a deeper relationship with God and others.

I don't want to be so caught up in the details that I miss the bigger picture. I want to focus on what matters. So, from now on, I will be more mindful of my tendency to over-prepare. I'll still pack a first aid kit and some snacks for our hikes, but I won't weigh myself down with unnecessary burdens.

And when it comes to life in general, I'll try to remember that it's okay to let go of my need for control and enjoy the moment. After all, that's what really matters in the end.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)