Intentional

Until today, I couldn’t quite figure out why the word intentional has been on my mind, but throughout the past several weeks, as various scenarios have played over and over in my daily life, I have been reminded that I have been created for a purpose. In order to fully live the life I was created for though, I cannot continue to live half-heartedly, going from one mindless act to the next.

I need purpose in my life. That is where I thrive.

This fact became most prevalent when I opened my pantry the other day and reached for a Zebra Cake, the flashy equivalent to yesteryears Ding Dong. First of all, I don’t even like Zebra Cakes. The fact that that they were even in my pantry was proof enough of my mindless state when I purchased them at the grocery story. Second, as I unwrapped the sugar-laden treat and shoved it in my mouth, I knew that in 30 seconds, that sweat treat would turn sour and sit like a brick in my stomach.

Why did I choose to eat that Zebra Cake when I knew full well that it would leave me feeling sick, tired and depressed? Why did I decided to read that book while playing with Caleb at the same time, causing me to get frustrated and his feelings to get hurt? And here’s a big one: Why do we, as a society, over-schedule our lives with activities and busyness to the point where we become numb to the possibility of living a life of real purpose?

If I am to feel a sense of achievement in my life, I first need to know who I am in Christ, and where He has me at any given moment. As with each one of us, he has also given me specific gifts and desires in order to achieve that purpose.

Right now, I am a mom to three young children. If there was ever a job that required intention, this would be it. My first purpose for my children is that they grow up knowing the Lord. My second purpose is to teach them the importance of living a life of character and compassion. As any one who has reared children knows, this requires a lot of energy and time…and more energy still. If I am filling myself up on Zebra Cakes that leave me feeling sick and tired, or validating my self-worth through busyness and endless activities, then I can’t quite do the job that I intend to do.

I suppose it’s time for me to rethink my mindless activities and get back to the life that God intended for me to live. After all, while those Zebra Cakes are satisfying for about 30 seconds, in the end, they have no lasting value.