Distracted By Details

Luke 10:40 – Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me." (NKJV)

I thrive on new projects, fresh ideas, and innovative designs. The church where I attend is in need of a new Advent wreath that can be lit each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. It is to be placed at the front of the sanctuary and needs to be seen by everyone in the worship services — even those in the back pews. In the past, we have tried many designs: a wooden stand, a brass hoop, chunky candles on a table, but nothing has been a genuine success.

This inspires me to sketch and write notes to myself. What if the wreath were four feet taller? Perhaps on a new stand with the option of tapered candles one year and large pillared candles the next? Maybe wrought iron would be better? Wood could be less expensive. In this fashion, my ideas spin me away.

There is nothing wrong with being imaginative, trying to serve others, and helping out our worship services. My problem is that I get distracted by all the various ideas that race around my head, and I miss focusing on God. I leave very little time to meditate on His Word and to contemplate how He rewards us with peace and rest.

Matthew 11:28 – Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (NKJV)

If you have one, examine an Advent wreath as we celebrate the Light coming into the world with the birth of Jesus. Only one end of the candles will be lit on our wreaths. We are to remember that we are not to live as though we are "burning the candle at both ends". God wants us to focus on His gift to us — eternal life through Jesus Christ. As the holy season approaches, let us purposely spend our energy and time in glorifying Him and resting in His love.

Prayer: Loving Lord, You promised the arrival of the Messiah, and Your people waited and watched. Help us to prepare our hearts and minds for what is really important this season — remembering the birth of our Saviour and giving thanks to You. Amen.

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