Doing or Being?

When is the last time, in describing your plans for the evening, you said “I will do with my friend?” How about when you’re telling someone about your upcoming family weekend – do you describe it as “I will do with my family?”  Or perhaps this summer, “I will do at a picnic or will do in nature.”  

If these lines sound a bit off, it is because there is a wrong word for the action.  We don’t “do” with a friend or family, at a picnic or in nature.  We “be” with people or at an event.  We say, “I will be out with my friend,” or “I will be at a picnic.”  

Unfortunately, too often we are so busy doing that we miss the opportunity to experience what it means to be.   Anyone who knows me, is either shocked or chuckling that I am writing these words because I have excelled at doing for far too many years.  Well, that has been changing, as I realize what was forfeited during that time.  There is a cost for all of that busyness.

      Loss of moments with those we love.
         Loss of much needed rest to maintain a healthy spirit, mind and body.
            Loss of important time with God … and more.

I’m reminded of a story that highlights this principle.  It’s found in the Bible in Luke 10:38-42 and is the story of two sisters – Mary and Martha.  Martha was busy doing the work while Mary was simply sitting with Jesus.  As is common for “doers” who see “be-ers” being, Martha complained.  “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself?  Tell her to help me” (Luke 10:40b NIV).  

His answer may be surprising … “‘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 10:41-42 NIV).

Let’s be clear.  There are responsibilities that require our attention, but when the to-do lists take over and keep us from spending time with God, in good self-care, and with those we love, we are out of balance.   

                     We are human “beings,” so let’s be!

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