The Balance of Life

As I get older, I start to realize that the pace of life has picked up a bit.  We have the ability to get information instantly.  We can play any song, get directions, or reply to your boss’ email in minutes.  As Brooks from Shawshank put it, “The world went and got itself in a big damn hurry.”  We try to improve our productivity at every turn.  Find a better more efficient route.  Preprint you boarding pass.  Microwave that pre-made dinner.

Why?  We all have the same number of minutes in a day.  Why are we racing through them at such a torrid pace?  Somewhere, someone has convinced us that if our days are not hectic, if our schedules are not filled, that we are lazy.  We are not living up to our potential, and striving for excellence.  You don’t want to be the guy who still has his Christmas lights up come February 1st.  I mean have you seen the athletes on those Gatorade commercials?  I need to have that kind of drive and passion!

The United States of America on average works more hours, takes less vacations and view those who work the longest hours to be the most dedicated.  Some say it’s the price to pay for success.  Studies prove this not to be the case.  In fact, when looked more closely as to why American’s are so addicted to being busy, it has less to do with ambition, and more to do with the anxiety of what they will face in it’s absence.  We are no longer comfortable being still.  We have come to find comfort in the stimulations and the distractions, and have learned to avoid living a more authentic life that values reflection and examination of self.

People now brag about how busy they are.  The satisfaction from bragging provides the same pleasure sensation that we derive from food or money.  Bragging about being busy has become a new unconscious habit.  Our new status symbol isn’t that Jag or Rolex.  It’s that we are booked solid for the next three weeks.

Is this what God is calling us towards?  Do you think He is impressed when he looks at your full calendar and watches the way you rush about your days?

Exodus 14:13 Moses tells his people to “Fear not, and stand still.”  When Jesus compares Martha’s work ethic compared to Mary’s adoration, who is told they are missing the mark?  Matthew 11-28 “Come to me all who labor and I will give you rest.”  This does not sound like a God who is cracking the whip, but one who is calling us to simplicity.  Being a workaholic, coaching every kid’s sport while washing the cars and edging your lawn might make you think you are achieving and providing.  But what are you achieving?  Stress, anxiety, burnout?  Do you find yourself turning on the TV or staring at your phone, trying to slow down and find peace?

God is not the one hoping to keep you busy and distracted.  He is calling you to fight through your pride and proving to the world how important and popular you are and clear your schedule.  Have a week where you say no.  Be proud of how blank your calendar is.  And spend all of that time finding a way to sit still.  Quiet all of the voices in your head running through your to do list and reminders.  There is peace waiting for all of us.  And in that stillness, He is there.