Choosing Connection Over Chores
One of my biggest struggles in parenting is being present—stopping to snuggle and play as much as I want to. I often find myself focused on caring for my children: brushing teeth, washing clothes, preparing meals, feeding, cleaning up, bathing, and obsessively tidying up the house.
That’s all I seemed to be doing.
So, I decided to make a physical change to our environment, and get us out of the main living area for play time. Suddenly, I couldn’t see the dishes in the sink or the crumbs on the floor. There was no TV, no laundry pile staring at me—just me, the kids, and their toys.
We played.
We read.
We enjoyed each other’s company without distraction.
And little by little, those habits carried over into our regular spaces too. I started connecting differently with my children—even amid all the unfinished tasks.
In today’s over-stimulated, fast-paced world, slowing down and focusing on what matters most can feel nearly impossible. Even in our downtime, we’re often still consuming something—scrolling, watching, listening.
To simply sit… to be bored… to engage in slow, intentional play with your little ones can feel challenging. But it’s worth the effort.
The story of Mary and Martha shows us that this isn’t a new struggle. Long before smartphones, women were already overwhelmed by responsibilities—and missing opportunities to connect.
And honestly? I feel for Martha.
She’s the one working tirelessly behind the scenes, making sure everyone is cared for. And let’s not forget—JESUS is her guest. She’s not slacking; she’s doing what any of us might do.
Yet Mary is the one who gets praised.
She’s not in the kitchen or setting the table—she’s just sitting at His feet.
This story still teaches us something vital today:
There will always be more to do. Always.
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We Have to Choose Connection Over Production
The to-do list will never be finished.
You will never reach the day when you say, “Every dish is clean, every drawer organized, every child’s nails are trimmed, beds are made, fridge is stocked, laundry is folded, inbox is empty…”
There is always more to do.
So what if we stopped trying to do it all—and instead chose what Jesus called better?
“You are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
— Luke 10:42 (NIV)
So let me ask you:
Who do you need to connect with today?
Who might be feeling the impact of your “Martha-ing”?
Is it your children?
Your spouse?
A friend?
Or your Savior?
Give yourself permission to slow down and choose connection. You won’t regret it.
I serve my kids all day long, but stopping to just be is still a daily struggle. I know that time waits for no one—and today is a gift. I want to make room for what matters most: time with my Savior, and distraction-free connection with my family.
If you’re like me and struggle to just “be,” ask God to help you find small pockets of time. Make it your daily goal. Even a few minutes matter.
I’m here with you—flipping through a children’s book and intentionally putting my phone down. 😉
Reflection:
What distractions do I need to lay down today in order to truly connect?
Prayer:
Lord, help me choose what is better. Quiet my busy heart so I can sit at Your feet and be fully present with those You’ve entrusted to me.