I like having a clean home. I like things to be put away where they go, and I do not like to see dusty furniture. While there is nothing wrong with having a clean home, I am also a mom to four children of various ages and I often find that I miss opportunities to have fun and enjoy moments with them because I am focused on cleaning. I remind myself of Martha in Luke 10 where she complains to Jesus about her sister Mary not helping her with the needed preparations. Jesus then goes on to tell her how Mary had chosen what is better, which was sitting at the Lord’s feet listening to Him. Mary knew how to prioritize what was important and enjoy the moment.

The following poem seemed to resonate well with this topic:

Dust if you must, but would it not be better to paint a picture,

or write a letter, bake a cake, or plant a seed,

Ponder the difference between want and need?

Dust if you must, but there is not much time,

With rivers to swim, and mountains to climb,

Music to hear, and books to read,

Friends to cherish, and life to lead.

Dust if you must, but the world is out there

With the sun in your eyes, and the wind in your hair,

A flutter of snow, a shower of rain,

This day will not come around again.

Dust if you must, but bear in mind,

Old age will come and it is not kind.

And when you go (and go you must)

You, yourself, will make more dust.²

Work is important and a blessing from God. The Bible encourages us to work. However, it also reminds us to create a balance and have fun as well. As you go about your day, look for those small, but meaningful, moments to enjoy life a little more. Whether it be playing a game with your children or enjoying an unexpected date night with your spouse, remember to celebrate the moments God gives you.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for reminding us to value life and the people you have put in our lives to share it with. You have created so many beautiful things for us to enjoy. Allow me never to get so caught up in the mundane things of life that I miss moments to share with you and with those around me. In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.

1. Ecclesiastes 8:15 (NLT).
2. Dust if You Must, written by Rose Milligan

The Encounter for today was written by: Crystal B.