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In Order. Hostess with the Mostest

October 25, 2017. Luke 10-11, John 10:22-42.

 

When was the last time you were completely still; not having the next task already buzzing in your mind or already running around like a chicken with its head cut off trying to get all of your errands and responsibilities done?

Our culture praises business and associates it with success.  The busier you are = the more you got goin’ on for you.  And while hard work and dedication are definitely qualities to strive for, there is something precious about down time.  Even God took that seventh day of Creation to rest.

In today’s passage, you get a great example of a busybody and one who values stillness.

38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42)

Martha was not doing anything wrong.  She was striving to be the hostess with the mostest.  The problem was, she  was failing to recognize the incredible opportunity she was having.  The Son of God was literally sitting in her living room.  Mary was well aware of this fact and so she decided what was more important - to be still and listen to every word Jesus was speaking.  We get so wrapped up in the things we think we need and need to provide others, but out of the mouth of Jesus Himself - only one is needed; Jesus.  And while Martha’s status as hostess with the mostest may be taken away from her, a personal relationship with Jesus Christ never will.

Be sensitive today and in the days to come, to the moments when it is time to be still, rest, and be reconnected with the words of God.