Prioritizing People

In our culture of endless busyness and digital distraction, we're confronted with a sobering reality: Americans spend an average of 49 hours per week on screens before arriving at church on Sunday. Yet Scripture calls us to something radically different—a life built on intentional priorities rather than reactive chaos. Using the powerful illustration of fitting rocks into a jar, we're reminded that when we place the big rocks first—God and relationships—everything else finds its place. But when we fill our lives with the small pebbles of busyness first, the truly important things get left out. Jesus demonstrated this priority beautifully in His final 24 hours, choosing to invest His remaining time washing the feet of His disciples and deepening relationship with those He loved. John 10:10 promises us life to the full—superabundant in quantity and superior in quality—but the enemy's primary weapon against this abundant life is keeping us too busy for what truly matters. The early church understood this, gathering not only in large temple courts but also breaking bread in homes, building each other up through authentic community. When we prioritize godly relationships and intentional community, we position ourselves for the spiritual growth that happens best in intimate settings where we can encourage one another, pray for each other's spiritual development, and experience the healing that comes from honest confession and mutual support.