I have been thinking about how I go about my daily routines and chores, those mindless jobs that I can sometimes feel in auto mode for and am just relieved when I can cross another item off my “to do” list. I don’t believe that is how God wants us to go about life, day after day… joyless and unfulfilled. Much of our life is filled with work that seems unglamorous, and we sometimes wonder what we are doing that will have eternal impact.

I was listening to a podcast that was talking about how our routine tasks can actually be calming to us…. preparing meals, washing dishes, doing laundry, making beds…. and I think part of that may be a sense of accomplishment but also being thankful that we can do these things for ourselves as well as our loved ones. It seems being disciplined and faithful in the little things prepares us for what we see as the bigger, more important work and goals in life. But it is all important, and has purpose– the greatest purpose being to glorify God in all we do.

I have found that using the times I am working alone to worship and give thanks to God, listening (or singing) to music, inspirational podcasts, or even just enjoying some silence and thinking my own thoughts can be times of refreshing and bring joy. When someone (especially one of my young adult kids) is working with me, it may take a little more effort to engage in positive conversation and try to find ways to encourage the good and build them up, rather than find fault with everything. Also we can use those times as a way to teach or affirm some skill or special area of interest, or just to enjoy sharing together either on a more serious level, or on lighter topics accompanied with laughter. What a great way to build stronger relationships.

A pretty basic example of finding joy in the mundane is to be praying for each family member as I am folding laundry, and giving thanks that we have plenty of clothing, a washer and dryer or nice weather to line dry, and just trying to find a way I can especially bless someone with the task at hand (like suprising one of my family members by putting fresh sheets on their bed for them!).

I firmly believe that counting our blessings and an attitude of gratitude are the keys to a joyful and content heart. We have all heard that comparison is the thief of joy. When we look at what we see others doing or enjoying, it can be easy to feel like we must be missing out on something. But when we are thankful for all of our own blessings and stay joyfully occupied with the work God has given us, we have no time to worry about how our life may pale in comparison to someone else’s. In fact, most of the time, I would guess that none of us would really want to trade lives with anyone else! Sure, we see the highlight reels on social media, but if we really knew the behind the scenes, I think most of us would take our own struggles and disappointments and decide they really aren’t that bad. Cultivating thankfulness and contentment in our daily lives brings true joy in living.

I know I don’t want to someday look back with regret at how little I enjoyed the “present” and wonder how day after day slipped by and became weeks, months, and years while I just worked for that elusive “someday” when I could really “enjoy life.” I want to be joyful in the mundane, daily work which makes up a huge percentage of life, and make the most of every moment God blesses me with. Life is too short to allow myself to be mindless. I aim to be more intentional and present with each daily task and continue to find joy in the journey!

“Only one life, twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.” (C.T. Studd)

Psalm 16:11 “You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.”