Monday, December 16, 2013

Being Mary in a Martha Season

As Christmas approaches, I find myself wanting to switch into "Martha mode". I'm referring to the Scripture in Luke 10:39-42 where Jesus and his disciples came to the home of sisters, Mary and Martha. Mary sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" Jesus replied, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed, or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her."  I can't tell you how many times I've read this Scripture and reminded myself that Jesus said Mary has chosen what is better. What was Mary doing? She was sitting at the feet of Jesus... listening. Sometimes I think we get so caught up in the Christmas season hustling and bustling around buying gifts, preparing food, making Christmas goodies, wrapping presents, decorating homes, cleaning and preparing for family that we often forget the purpose for which we do all these things.

Jesus is the reason for the season. 

I repeat this phrase to myself and believe it to be true, but do I let it alter my activity? Do I stop and take time to sit at Jesus feet and listen? "But there's so much to do! Who will do it if I don't?" We think all these things are necessary-decorating, buying presents, creating delicious foods. But as Jesus said, "few things are needed". This year I haven't had the ability to do all the baking and decorating that I've done in the past. And truly it has been much more peaceful. I have had more time to sit at Jesus feet and listen. As I spend time reading God's word, the anxiety and frantic pace of the season melt away. The things that need to get done get done. I am left with peace and precious family time.

So before you wrap another present or bake another cookie, take time to be still before the Lord, read His Word and listen."And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus". (Philippians 4:7)

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth PEACE, goodwill toward men!"  Luke 2:14

2 comments:

  1. Wisely and beautifully articulated, Sis! I love you!

    Suzi

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  2. This is great. It SHOULD be a season of peace! Great post.

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