The List

Greetings Faithful Ones!

      Occasionally I find a real nugget of truth in The Message version of the scripture, so I am using it with this post.  I have been lately trying to find rest in my life; discovering what is important and what can be set aside. I’m challenged once again by this meditation written some years ago. I think it’s an issue I need to address…still! I don’t think I am alone…

THE LIST 

“I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly. Matthew 11:28-29 

This morning I made a list. It seemed like a necessary thing to do. Tasks awaited and I needed to make myself focus…or so I thought. But I heard a Voice say, “Learn the unforced 

rhythms of grace…let go of your list.” I pondered what this would mean…letting go of my list…and couldn’t understand why it is something I must do. 

Then I realized that I depend on a crossed-off list as a sign of my usefulness and purpose. 

I cried out, “Abba, how can I dispose of my list and still accomplish what I must do?  You know me, the scatterbrained woman You have created; must I really make a paper airplane out of my list and sail it heavenward? 

And I hear Your answer… “There is nothing wrong with a list; but do not let it define you.  Let it be a tool, not a thermometer that determines your worth in your own eyes.” And I see how the rigidity of my incessant list-making accuses me and discourages me.  I use it as a whip when it should simply be a reminder. Your Matthew scripture says to come to you, learn from you, and you will give my heart rest. 

So Father, though I am overwhelmed this morning, and though my list seems daunting, I am reminded that You are the Overwhelmer Overcomer! Okay, I’m laying down my list! I am willing to learn. Amen.