Trading To-Do Lists for Truth: Finding Jesus Amidst the End-of-School Frenzy

The calendar is a battlefield. Between the final push of the school year – culminating projects, exams, and those endless permission slips – and the early stirrings of summer activities – sign-ups, equipment checks, and tentative vacation plans – it feels like we're sprinting a marathon in quicksand here in Bentonville. Add to that the usual demands of running a business, being good at your job, and the temptation to be completely consumed by the "doing" is overwhelming. Sometimes the May calendar can look like a map that you have to figure out how to safely get to the end.

For those of us striving to follow Christ, this chaotic in-between season presents a critical choice. Will we allow the urgent to eclipse the eternal? Will our minds be so cluttered with schedules and deadlines that we miss the gentle, yet powerful, presence of Jesus in the midst of it all?

It's easy to fall into the trap of believing that productivity equals purpose, and a full calendar signifies a life well-lived. But as Christian business owners and parents, we know that true purpose and lasting fulfillment are found not in the accumulation of achievements or the flawless execution of our to-do lists, but in our abiding relationship with Christ.

This isn't to say that our responsibilities don't matter. We are called to be diligent and good stewards of what God has entrusted to us. However, the danger lies in allowing these tasks, even good ones, to become our primary focus, pushing Jesus to the periphery of our thoughts and actions.

What if, instead of being overwhelmed by the doing, we allowed ourselves to be overwhelmed by the doer, Jesus?

"Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." Matthew 6:34

Imagine approaching each task, each meeting, each family interaction, not as another item to check off, but as an opportunity to invite Christ into that space. What if the undercurrent of our busy days wasn't anxiety about getting everything done, but a deep awareness of His nearness and His peace that surpasses all understanding?

"Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes." James 4:14

Here are some ways we can intentionally shift our focus amidst the end-of-school hustle:

• Intentional Pauses for Prayer: Even amidst back-to-back appointments, steal moments for brief prayer. A quick "Lord, help me focus," or "Jesus, give me wisdom in this conversation" can re-center our hearts.

• Saturate Your Mind with Scripture: Keep a Bible app handy or verses written down where you can see them. Instead of scrolling mindlessly during brief breaks, read a passage of Scripture and allow it to wash over you.

• Seek His Presence in the Mundane: Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to His presence in the everyday tasks. Can you see His creativity in the beauty of nature on your commute? Can you extend His grace in a challenging business interaction?

• Prioritize Sabbath Rest: Even if a full day feels impossible, intentionally carve out some time for rest and spiritual refreshment. This could be an hour of quiet reading, a peaceful walk in nature, or simply sitting still and listening for God's voice.

• Involve Your Children in Seeking Him: Talk openly with your kids about the importance of making time for Jesus, even when things are busy. Pray with them about their schoolwork, their sports, and their anxieties. Let them see you prioritizing your relationship with God.

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"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." Psalm 16:11

The end of the school year doesn't have to be a spiritual drought. It can be an opportunity to practice pressing into Jesus even more intentionally. Let's pray that instead of being weighed down by our obligations, we are lifted up by His presence, guided by His wisdom, and overwhelmed by His peace that transcends the chaos. May our children see in us not just busy parents, business owners, employees, and friends, but individuals whose lives are anchored in the unwavering love of Jesus, no matter the season.

How are you intentionally seeking Jesus amidst the busyness of this season? Share your strategies in the comments below!