It’s very easy in life to let things get blown out of proportion. Some people, by their inborn temperament and life experiences, are more prone to ‘catastrophizing’ than others. But anyone can lose perspective and fall into the trap of allowing an issue or problem to become larger in our minds and emotions than it really is. Of course, there are actual catastrophes as we’ve seen all around the world this spring. But often, it is less catastrophic things that can trip us up. As we dwell on the issues troubling us they get magnified. What is the solution? The following story gives us the Lord’s perspective:
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42 NIV)
Often we want Jesus or someone that we believe is in a position of influence to ‘fix’ someone else according to our preferences and priorities.
Instead of dwelling on the problem we are encouraged to dwell on Jesus. Fixing our eyes on Jesus helps us to gain a heavenly and eternal perspective on the things that trouble us. Spending time in the Lord’s Presence, as Mary of Bethany did, brings us back to a place of peace.
Jesus shed His blood to purchase for us peace with God and peace within ourselves. Contemplating this true and eternal reality puts the details and trials of this life in perspective. It is then that we can realize that His yoke indeed is easy and His burden is light. The ‘burden’ of following Jesus is far lighter than the crushing burdens we can place on ourselves and one another.
The hymn “Peace, Perfect Peace” came into Jen’s mind when we were praying together this morning:
Peace, perfect peace, in this dark world of sin? The Blood of Jesus whispers peace within.
Peace, perfect peace, by thronging duties pressed? To do the will of Jesus, this is rest.
Peace, perfect peace, with sorrows surging round? On Jesus’ bosom nought but calm is found.
Peace, perfect peace with love ones far away? In Jesus’ keeping we are safe and they.
Peace, perfect peace, our future all unknown? Jesus we know and He is on the Throne.
Peace, perfect peace, death shadowing us and ours? Jesus has vanquished death and all its powers.
It is enough: earth’s struggles soon shall cease, and Jesus call us to heaven’s perfect peace.
In this Ascension season of the Father’s love, may you be filled with the peace of Christ as you rest in Him.
