I’ve been out three times this weekend with advent candles written specifically on my list and forgotten to look each time. Why? I’m distracted by being so full– full of lists, engagements, expectations.

So many things call for my immediate attention. I have trouble stopping long enough to ask myself which things will last. Which things must be done and what things can I let pass?

Advent candles are a perfect example actually. We don’t have to light purple and pink candles to read the scripture weekly together. We could use the white emergency votives sitting under the sink, or shine a flashlight each week (or our cell phone flashlights for that matter). It’s my expectations that set me back— if I find myself without the candles I think we need, I tend to throw my hands up in defeat, “That’s it. No candles, no advent. Maybe next year I’ll do better.”

I wish I could say that I don’t have this attitude about other things, but I do. Christmas cookies, menu items, pictures, and a host of other expectations that are entirely self-inflicted.

I can choose to focus on how my expectations have not been met or I can choose to be present and celebrate the wonder God has already provided. And His wonder is far greater than anything I can find, buy, make, or conjure myself.

If you feel inadequate like me, there is hope for us. We can take the scary step and ask, “Just what is the worst case scenario here if I don’t buy candles? If I don’t send out cards? If I don’t attend fourteen class Christmas parties and performances?” Then the better question for me is “What really matters right now long term?”

How do I remember He’s enough in the middle of a season that thrives on bustle and expense? I have to know where to fix my gaze when distractions come. It reminds me of Martha and Mary when Jesus comes to visit them— and please know if I had been asked to play one of the parts, I would have been martyr Martha every time.

38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one.[a] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”  Luke 10:38-42 NIV

My prayer today is to remember “few things are needed.” This is our hope. When we forget the candles, cards, class party marshmallows or hostess gift, I’m going to apologize if necessary, but then I will be as gracious as possible to myself and say, “Few things are needed—indeed only One.” Jesus is enough.