A Few Things at a Time

February 26, 2008

Lar,

I was reminded yesterday of the importance of embracing change a little at a time.  Erin was the catalyst really.  Actually, I suppose, my own foolishness and frustration was the catalyst.  Erin just had the wisdom to make things plain.

You see, before every basketball game, I take a look at a list of things on my phone that I want to focus on during the game.  It’s something I want to meditate upon, because I realize that meditation is a means to transformation.  Right thinking leads to right acting (or in my case, playing).

But here is the problem…as time has gone by, the list has become longer and longer.  In essence, it has become overwhelming, so overwhelming that it can actually hinder me sometimes.  Sunday was one of those days.

So I have shortened my list to three things.  Just three things to think about and meditate on–probably for the rest of the year (or maybe the rest of my career!).  Sure, there are more things I want to work on and improve, but I can’t take on 10.  For if I take on 10, my gains will be small or I might end up going backwards.   And if I have chosen the right three things, many of the other things might well take care of themselves.

And so it is in the Christian life.  Oftentimes we are overwhelmed with all we have to change.  That isn’t all bad.  What is bad is when we try to tackle it all in our own strength all at once.  We are better and wiser to ‘boil things down’ to the most necessary and foundational.  To focus on the most important things that will help take care of everything else.  Simplification isn’t a bad thing if done in the right way.  Indeed, it can be a very freeing thing.

So I encourage you and everyone else to take a look at your own lives.  What two or three things must you focus on right now?  What habits?  What relationships?  What theological topic maybe?  Whatever.  Take come time to think it over.  Then discuss with some brothers and sisters to gain their wisdom.  Also, be sure to write it down and review it regularly.

Don’t get swamped with a big list!  Just focus on a few good things until they become habit.   Pray about these things.  Read about these things.  Ask others for their help and wisdom through these things.  I trust the Lord will grant a lot of grace.

Doing my best to keep my list short,

Joe

Posted by Joe | Filed Under Random Musings, Seeking Him 

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