Mastery of the Mundane

Finding fulfillment in mundane tasks from a Christian perspective can be very tough!

Why?

Because it's boring! We like stimulation. We like adventure. We like screens! All day, every day. It reminds me of the people on Wall-E, sitting in their chairs, losing their health and bone density, watching screens. 😂

But we were not made for comfort and entertainment. Some entertainment and comfort is good. But we must also embrace the health concept of eustress.

Eustress, often referred to as "positive stress," is the type of stress that can actually be beneficial and motivating. Unlike its more notorious counterpart, distress, eustress is the kind of stress that pushes you to perform better and achieve your goals. It can come from various sources such as starting a new job, preparing for a big presentation, or even planning a wedding. It can also come from performing hard, but necessary, routine and mundane tsks. This form of stress triggers a sense of excitement and anticipation, helping to boost your energy levels and enhance your focus. By challenging yourself and stepping out of your comfort zone, eustress can lead to personal growth, improved performance, and a greater sense of accomplishment. Embracing eustress can transform potentially overwhelming situations into opportunities for development and success.

First, approach each task with a sense of humility, recognizing that even the smallest duties are opportunities to serve God and others.

Second, practice mindfulness and presence, focusing on the task at hand as a form of prayer and meditation, allowing you to connect with the divine in the present moment.

Third, cultivate gratitude, seeing each task as a gift and a chance to express thankfulness for the ability to perform it.

Fourth, remember the concept of theosis, or becoming more like God, and view each task as a step towards spiritual growth and transformation.

Finally, engage in community, understanding that your efforts contribute to the well-being of others, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and shared purpose within the body of Christ.

Even in mundane tasks, as well as “harder” tasks like doing a sales presentation, this is a form of serving God and others, and can lead to great health and spiritual benefits for you.