Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles invited listeners to slow down and find peace in their lives during a BYU Education Week devotional on August 17. Addressing more than 15,000 attendees at the Marriott Center in Provo, Utah, Kearon encouraged people to turn to Christ to find promised peace rather than focusing solely on productivity and goals.
Kearon noted that while setting and striving for goals is part of the culture of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the push to achieve can sometimes exceed healthy limits. He expressed concern that individuals may begin to tie their self-worth to their success and productivity. He told the audience that their best is good enough and that achievements do not define them.
During the devotional, Kearon discussed the balance between service and stillness, using the New Testament story of Mary and Martha. He suggested that while service is important, sitting and listening to Jesus is a necessary part of discipleship. He noted that Martha was doing great work for Jesus, but perhaps not enough work with Him, whereas Mary chose to attend to the Savior.
Kearon also reflected on the importance of qualities that are difficult to quantify, such as gentleness, meekness, patience, and pure love. He cautioned that constant focus on achievements and to-do lists might squeeze out the time to dream or marvel. He concluded by stating that as people learn of Jesus, they will see more clearly what He would have them do and become.
