The last two meditations dealt with reset and restart respectively. These two will still be inadequate to deliver on the promise of a better year without this: Refocus. Seriously, more people fail due to divergent pursuits. The typical scenario is that of being a Jack of all trades and master of none. Those who must excel may have to narrow their interests and give all their energy to fewer things. That way, they can escape burnout and record better results.

Seriously, more people fail due to divergent pursuits…Those who must excel may have to narrow their interests and give all their energy to fewer things. That way, they can escape burnout and record better results.

Jesus rebuked the seeming lack of focus in Martha. Though she had asked Jesus to command her sister, Mary to come and give a helping hand in serving, the Master saw that as a smokescreen. The issue wasn’t just being busy to give Jesus a treat, it was more of the defining characteristic of her life. We see this much in the Master’s remark. “And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things.” (Luke 10:41 NKJV). In contrast to Martha’s boisterous nature was Mary’s calmness and focus. “But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”” (Luke 10:42 NKJV). Each of us must locate what is important to us and our assignments, face it, and let go of other things. Jesus did not only commend the focus of Mary, but it was also a jealously guarded secret of His life. He avoided people and propositions that would mean only distractions to Him. This year will be promising for those who lay aside all heavy weight of distractions to focus only on what will make a difference in their lives.