Like many of you, I find that life sometimes gets so busy that we often find it difficult to keep up with all that needs to be done. We can get so busy with things that are driven by deadlines that we begin to realize that we aren't focusing on the other things which are often more important--like staying in contact with those we love. 

Nurturing the relationships with our family and friends is more important than most of the things that can take up so much of our time. But all too often, our relationships seem to become neglected because we are occupied by heavy work or school loads, by schedules and expectations of others, by distractions that seem so important at the time, or by many other forces around us. I know this is true in my life, and you likely feel similar pressures. We can become so busy with tasks that are ours to do that we leave little time to spend with the people who are most important in our lives.

I was reading in Hebrews and came across this verse, which helped me to refocus and meditate on what is important: Hebrews 13:16 "But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased." Do not forget to do good and to share. Yes, sometimes it can seem like a sacrifice to take the time and devote the energy and resources that will help others. But, when we do focus on nurturing relationships by doing good and sharing, "God is well pleased."

So, how can I apply this? First, by not forgetting that others around me could benefit from a bit more attention and caring. I can make a few extra phone calls each week, send a couple more notes of encouragement to those whom I love and serve, and share a few more moments of conversation with family and friends. I could give a higher priority to making sacrifices that are pleasing to God. If you also feel so busy at times that there is not enough time or energy left to devote to your relationships with family and friends, perhaps you can add a few more simple things to your daily or weekly list, and put them at the top of your list.

Sometimes it is the simple things that make the most difference in someone's life. And, always, it is the simple things that Jesus takes note of each time we help someone else to have a better day. Matthew 25:34-40 shows just how much it matters to our King when we sacrifice a bit of our time and resources to those around us. He says that when we help others we are helping Him, and that those who do these things will "inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." That's a pretty good incentive for me--and all of us--to make sure we include in our busy schedules the nurturing of relationships with our family and friends and others around us.

In Christian love, Roc Corbett