Early in the morning [Jesus] went off
to a solitary place, where he prayed.
—Mark 1:35
A masterful violinist said the secret of her success was “planned neglect.”
She explained that at an early stage, she had allowed routine chores like washing dishes, making beds, and running errands to take precedence over practice. By the time she uncased her violin, she was drained, and her practice was unfocused and unproductive.
She resolved to make practice her priority. Her “planned neglect” of everything else until her practice was done produced an accomplished musician.
It was early in the morning when people came to hear Jesus teach at the temple (Lk 21:38).
It was even earlier in the morning, while it was still dark, when Jesus made his way to a solitary place to pray (Mk 1:35).
Better to neglect all else than to skip time with him.
Before you face your day, face your Father.