What’s More Important to You?

“It’s so frustrating when I can’t get anything done around here!” I complained, irritability evident in my tone.

As soon as I said it, I cringed.

Having a newborn, with my oldest two being only 4 and 2 years old, means our family is walking through a time of transition. Unpredictable schedules, adjusting to a new baby, and many sleepless nights are just part of this season. A season that is as equally wonderful as it is difficult.

I have been trying so hard to give thanks, even in the frustrations, to let go and trust God with each moment, even when those moments don’t go the way I planned.

How did I lose perspective so quickly?

Are our days really measured by what we accomplish?

And what does “accomplishment” look like anyway? If I have clean floors and the laundry finished but haven’t spent time with my children, have I accomplished anything?

“Prioritize your children far and away above the other work you need to get done. They are the only part of your work that really matters” (Loving the Little Years, ch. 10).

Why do I allow my to-do list to drive my days rather than my love?

Are the accomplishments I’m seeking the ones that really matter?

Maybe I wasn’t able to clean the house or straighten up the playroom — things I’ve been planning to do for days! But I had the gift of holding a baby who needs me, caring for the needs of my toddler who loves me, and praying with my daughter who was struggling with her emotions. Clearly something I was struggling with, too.

Sometimes I just need a gentle reminder and a new perspective.

“‘What is more important–this flashlight, or your sister?'” (Loving the Little Years, ch. 16)

As they argue over an object and whine, “It’s miiiiiiine!” I’ve said it time and time again, too. What’s more important–the book or your brother, the stuffed animal or your sister, that toy or your relationship? But haven’t I been the culprit? Don’t I need to ask myself?

What’s more important — an empty sink or coloring with my daughter, my Facebook news feed or my son’s question, my to-do list or my family?

Sometimes things don’t get done — and that’s okay.

So I’ll empty the dishwasher later, fold the laundry tonight, and publish this post even though it’s still in-process because I’m going out to play with my kids.

Question for You:

Fill in the blanks: What’s more important to you — _______ or ________? What will you do about that today?

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