Like a wind-up doll

Time ticks by mercilessly it seems. I try not to watch. I want to keep my hands busy and my heart full. My heart is delighted by Father who is good in every way. His presence is the sun that warms me; His kindness is the water that cleanses me; His discipline is the fire that purifies me; His promises are the wind that carries me; His word is the food that nourishes me.

My back is every day in knots over the frustrations of this life. I peer out beneath my furrowed brow at unfinished tasks and, like a wind-up doll, brace myself for the tight winds that strain the back, followed by the frenzy of motion and hurried movements. Like a mechanical toy, I complete the menial tasks that each day demands. Do they call for such stress? No, release me from this laborious perspective.

Luke recounts the story of two sisters who invited Jesus to their house. While one sister ran around feverishly to make preparations, the other sister simply sat at Jesus' feet and listened. Jesus teaches us that the latter of the two made the best decision. There are many things that worry and upset us in this life, but only one is necessary.

As I sit at Jesus feet and listen, I am reminded of the cost of discipleship. Following Jesus means taking up our cross daily. I will gladly welcome the tightness in my back when it is born from the weight of a cross, a self-denial and a holy frustration producing fruit of love and justice.


Why does my back hurt?