She Did What She Could

But Jesus said, “Let her alone. Why are you giving her a hard time? She has just done something wonderfully significant for me. You will have the poor with you every day for the rest of your lives. Whenever you feel like it, you can do something for them. Not so with me. She did what she could when she could—she pre-anointed my body for burial. And you can be sure that wherever in the whole world the Message is preached, what she just did is going to be talked about admiringly.”     Mark 14:6-9

Today is geared toward those in professions as teachers, but can so relate to any GFF. If you are at a point in your life where you have more questions than answers, more worries than peace, and feel you just can't do any more in the situation then this will speak to you.

As teachers, it’s that time of year when we know our students well. We know their needs, their quirks, and their strengths. We have a glimpse at their home lives and insight into why things are the way they are for these little ones. We are puzzled by their behaviors and seek answers to why learning is so difficult for some.

We make plans to meet with parents, spend extra time with students, reward the positives, and discipline the negative. Yet, our hearts are overwhelmed because we know our time is limited and despite all we give we cannot ‘fix’ all the problems for these children. We long for that one thing that will make it all better. We exhaust ourselves trying to change that which we cannot change.

Remember the woman who anointed Jesus’ feet? She did not worry over what she couldn’t do. She simply did what she could. She gave her best to Jesus, and he was so blessed by her gift. What situation do you face today where you can rest knowing you've done what you could? There is a time to work and a time to rest. Seek God's wisdom. Give your best efforts and then rest knowing God is pleased with what you have done and what you are doing at this time in your relationships and in your work.

Lord,

We are passionate about the people and situations in our lives. We seek your wisdom and guidance. Help us to do what we can without worrying about what we cannot do. Let our lives and our work be a blessing to you.

Amen