I Wore High Heels on a Broken Foot (Don’t Judge Yet!)
“Yes,” the tech said to my daughter-in-law, “the X-rays show you did fracture your toe.”
When she shared that with me, I immediately flashed back to the time I was in a hurry, turned a corner too fast, and slammed my foot against the doorframe. The pain was intense—but vanity stepped in. I kept walking, pretending nothing was wrong, convinced the throbbing would magically disappear.
Two days later, I was limping through the airport, then across the plane, then through long hotel corridors. And yes, I was wearing high heels. How could I step onto a stage and deliver my keynote without them?
Weeks later, when the pain became unbearable, I finally saw a doctor. The X-rays revealed that the fracture had spread toward my foot—and worse, it had begun to heal crooked.
The solution? The orthopedic surgeon would have to re-break the foot.
OUCH.
But here’s what stung even more: realizing that my life, schedule, and commitments had become so overloaded that I wouldn’t even allow a broken foot to slow me down. But that’s not God’s way. Busy is not always better.
Maybe you’ve been there too—especially during the Christmas season. You rush to get everything done. You try to please everyone. You push through exhaustion, convincing yourself this is what “being responsible” looks like. But often, it becomes an unspoken, self-made commandment.
Yet when Jesus was asked, “Master, which is the greatest commandment?” He answered:
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:36–37)
He spoke it then and He speaks it to us now.
While we limp through the corridors of busyness, His plan is different—a plan to love Him first, seek Him first, and place Him first. (Matthew 6:33)
That’s when the true meaning of Christmas begins to glow again.
His way brings peace. His way builds confidence. His way steadies our hearts.
So tomorrow morning, before the day begins, let His love fill you as you:
- Invite Him into every moment.
- Be still long enough to hear His whisper.
- Surrender your to-do list.
- Thank Him in advance for every glitch He will resolve.
- Inhale His Word to stay calm, grounded, and secure.
When we deviate from His ways, burnout is inevitable. But when we follow His greatest commandment, wisdom rushes in—wisdom to prioritize, to persevere, to stay clear-minded, and to walk calmly even when toes break or plans fall apart.
“It’s useless to rise early and go to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don’t you know He enjoys giving rest to those He loves?” (Psalm 127:2, MSG)
This Christmas, instead of racing to meet your goals, rest in His.
That’s how peace grows, joy returns, and the season shines brighter than ever.
Let’s Pray
Lord Jesus, slow my steps and steady my heart. Help me love You first, seek You first, and trust You fully. Replace my rush with Your rest and my striving with Your peace. As I enter this Christmas season, let my life reflect Your presence more than my performance. Amen.
If this message spoke to your heart, take one simple step today: pause for three minutes, breathe deeply, and invite Jesus to reorder your day. You may be surprised how much peace arrives when you simply make room for Him.
Bonus article on today’s topic.
Janet
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