I try to meet regularly with seasoned men of God.  I love to glean from their wisdom and knowledge, and seek advice concerning family, ministry, preaching, and life in general.  Not long ago I met with a retired pastor for lunch.  In casual conversation he asked about my schedule, my appointments, and my responsibilities.  For the next few minutes I shared with him some of the things going on in my life, and then I asked for some practical advice.

     Without any reservation he stuck his fork in my roast beef and slung it across the table.  Taken back somewhat, I just stared as he tossed a piece of his cornbread in its place.  Then he said, “Son, you’ve got too much on your plate.  You want this (pointing to the cornbread), but you just don’t have room for it.”  And with fiery conviction he simply said, “Make room.”

     Needless to say, I didn’t finish the roast beef, but I did leave the table full.  He was right.  The plate was crowded.  Overflowing, really.  I walked away that afternoon with a new perspective on an old cliché.  I think we accept some responsibilities that God never intended us to have.  We assume too many roles, and take on too many tasks.  If your plate is crowded, it may be time to throw some food on the table.