"You all are so busy..."

My mother said the other afternoon as we were trying to schedule an appointment. It is true for us we are busy most evenings. When we are not we often find something to insert into our night off from the routine and then once again it is busy.

Is your life like that?

I spoke Sunday using the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10 as the basis for the message. As I was thinking one of the mornings this week that story came to mind again particularly the words “Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made” and Jesus’ words “you are worried and upset about many things.” As I sat and thought about that I was convicted that was me.

I think our schedules and busy lives lead to the many things that clog my mind and spirit. Not bad things or terrible things but good things. Family, children, taxes, bills, care of parents, financial future, job and college, all necessary aspects of life today but so many things to keep up with and understand. What would you put on your list of “many things?”
Martha had her many things. She was preparing a meal for God right in her own home. Let me suggest that was expected but that was also her gift to give to the Lord. But as is so often the case, the purpose was high jacked and instead of serving Jesus it came to serve Martha. The shift is so subtle and subversive. It happens without us even knowing until we find ourselves frustrated and upset and ready to quit. A high jacking has occurred and we are the last to know.

Jesus knows and understands us and our predicament. He calls Martha to the important not just the immediate with compassion and understanding. He knows we are busy and overwhelmed and just like Martha has calls us to himself to the important. Of all of the many things what is important? I told my Mother the reason they are in Rincon is so that we could help care for them as they needed. They are more important than our schedule. She was glad to hear that.

What if you told Jesus the same?

I will too!