Today I took care.
I took care of myself.
Am I using that phrase correctly? I’ve only heard it as “take care” so it sounds a bit wonky. Kind of like “passersby” or “brothers-in-law.” Technically correct, but definitely makes me do a double take. Anyway, back to the main point.
Today I took care of myself.
I’ve had a busy couple of weeks, including a youth retreat and an international trip. Both of these events were scheduled about two weeks before they occurred. This required a bit of change in my schedule, giving up a few of my regular tasks, delegating others, and canceling plans. One thing I decided not to give up was taking care of myself.
I haven’t always made this decision. Usually my own care is something I don’t mind putting aside when a busy season comes up (except sleep – I never sacrifice sleep!). I easily choose convenience over care. For example, the busier I am, the worse my diet is and the more drive-thrus I visit.
Today though, I took care. I went to a yoga class. I only brought groceries that would be good for my health. I went to bed on time last night. And I spent the afternoon praying with friends.
And in the middle of my yoga class as I was lying on the ground, eyes closed, breathing deeply, I was grateful.
It’s as if time expands when we prioritize the work God has called us to, including taking care. Martin Luther famously said, “I am so busy now that if I did not spend three hours each day in prayer, I could not get through the day.”
Spending an hour in yoga and an hour praying with friends in addition to my regular devotional routine proved to add time to my day rather than take it up. I can’t explain it. It doesn’t make sense. But whatever we submit to the Lord is miraculously multiplied, like the bread and fish that fed thousands.
Taking care can be an act of worship to God. Taking care of ourselves is one way we can live out our purpose. It also increases our love for our neighbor, which is the second greatest commandment according to Jesus in Matthew 22:39. “Love your neighbor as yourself.” The more we love who God made us and the more we express that love for ourselves, the more we can love others. This is why self-care is so important. It’s not the bubble baths that make a difference in our lives – it’s the act of worship to our Creator God whose image we bear.
Today I took care.
I took care of myself out of reverence for God. I surrendered my self-care to him. It was an act of worship.
