Luke 10:38-42 (ESV)
Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And
a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at
the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving.
And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left
me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha,
you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary.
Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
Did you know that the real-life conversations Jesus had
with people on earth count as prayers? A few people had the privilege of
talking to Jesus in person back in that day.
One time, Jesus came to visit Mary and Martha’s family. So
Martha got busy doing chores and cooking food for their guest. There was so
much to do. All the while, her sister Mary was just sitting there. Can you
believe it?
After a while, Martha had enough. She complained to Jesus
about the unfairness. “Hello! I’m doing all the work around here,” she griped.
“Mary’s being lazy.” Although Martha was doing good things, she didn’t get the
answer she expected. Martha thought Jesus would correct Mary and tell her to
get to work. Instead, Jesus corrected Martha. Gently, he helped her see that
even though taking care of guests was a good thing, he wanted something
different from Martha. He wanted her to be like Mary, paying attention to Jesus
at that moment rather than being distracted by too many to-do’s.
It can be easy to get caught up complaining about others in
your prayers. Jesus is more concerned with what is in your heart. You may not
be right or know best. It’s OK to vent your frustrations to God but expect
Jesus to tell you what you’re missing. He may even correct you. If he does, he
will show you a better way. You’ll find that you are less concerned with what
others are doing or not doing. Your concern should be with what Jesus wants for
you. It may be hard to hear, but are you going to listen to what Jesus has to
say?
Dear Lord, help our concerns be with what You want for us. Help
us to really listen to You and be willing to share our concerns with You. In
the Name of Jesus, Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment