Patrick Kearon addresses BYU Education Week on spiritual balance

Elder Patrick Kearon, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, delivered a devotional during Brigham Young University’s annual Education Week on August 18, 2026. Addressing an audience of over 15,000 at the Marriott Center, Kearon spoke about the importance of finding spiritual balance and avoiding the trap of tying self-worth to productivity.

Kearon cautioned against excessive goal-setting and the pressure to achieve, noting that achievement for its own sake does not lead to lasting peace. He referenced a study titled ‘Goals Gone Wild’ to illustrate how constant measurement of goals can diminish joy. He emphasized that while goals and plans are necessary for focus, they should not consume an individual or overshadow their relationship with Jesus Christ.

To illustrate his message, Kearon revisited the New Testament story of Mary and Martha. He provided a linguistic analysis of the Greek text, suggesting that Martha’s service was not a distraction from ministry but rather a form of ministry that left her feeling ‘cumbered’ or ‘dragged around’ by her tasks. He used the account to encourage listeners to focus on being with Christ rather than merely performing tasks for Him.