“As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.””
Luke 10:38-42 NLT
https://www.bible.com/116/luk.10.38-42.nlt
If you have had the honor of hosting and/or preparing a Thanksgiving meal, you know the task, even if you love to cook like I do, can become a bit overwhelming at times.
When I make plans for a party, event, or a big meal, I often write out my plans…sometimes even from the decor to the menu. The thing that I do regularly, perhaps, is overestimate what I can do in the allotted timeframe and energy that I have. Therefore, I always have optional items. Those are the things that are of lower importance and can be ditched if necessary when time or energy runs out.
This year, one of the things I chose ahead of time to ditch was the stuffing! No regrets! Usually of high importance because of the tradition behind the dish, just knowing I wasn’t going to attempt that one item this year brought a sense of relief that boosted me! And, I don’t think anyone really even noticed!
Truly, I think that in general this is a good plan. It gives me a wider array of options, but allows an out, also. The problem arises when those things on my list create a sense of anxiety coming from the excitement and pressure to go above and beyond. And what I find out with a meal like Thanksgiving is that I usually have more than enough. Granted, I love leftovers; however, when those leftovers turn to waste, I am disappointed that more of the food was not utilized.
Let’s take a moment to inventory how we spend our time in general in comparison to this way of meal prep that I just described.
Do we sit down and prep for the task at hand? In other words, do we take time regularly at the feet of Jesus as Mary did? To glean from His teachings through regular—even daily reading of His Word and praying? And, through church services where we are a part of the congregation and worship rather than only being present to serve? Do we take the time to better prepare for daily encounters and commitments; to live the abundant life with joy?
Do we possibly over-plan / over-commit as perhaps Martha did, causing anxiety and exhaustion? I have certainly been guilty, not just in the planning of events but in the committing to things in life in general. I, on the other hand, must be careful not to go from over-committing to over-protection of my time. I have found a much greater balance, but am still trying to be vigilant in this area of my life. One extreme or the other can lead to anxiety.
For my Thanksgiving preparation of the meal itself, and when it comes time to serve, or sit down to eat, do I take time to visit with those who have come to join the meal and celebration?
Martha was definitely a willing servant; and Mary was definitely one to take time for her Lord and those around her. We see this again in the book of John when Mary and Martha’s brother, Lazarus, died.
“When Martha got word that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him. But Mary stayed in the house.”
John 11:20 NLT
And Chapter 12…
“A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance.”
John 12:2-3 NLT
Mary and Martha both believed and loved Jesus (it is evident in the scriptures when you read more of John 11 & 12). And from what I read, Jesus does not condemn Martha for her activity, but advises on a better way; however, He does condone Mary for her time and sacrifice to Him.
“Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.””
James 2:18 NLT
I think the moral of the story here is…
Martha’s actions were important, and even a necessary component; but being a Martha without the heart of Mary can create an imbalance that leads to stress and pressure.
Take a step back every so often to check your time with the Father and the motivation of your servitude.
Sometimes, and for some people, it is easier to jump in and do than it is to to take time to sit and “be still.” For others, it may be that we sit still, and now need to add in more get-up-and-go.
Taking inventory before preparation may lead to a little simplifying, more balance, more time for others…and less leftovers
“Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear.”
Philippians 2:12 NLT
https://www.bible.com/116/php.2.12.nlt
That obedience may come into play by slowing just enough to come closer to Him.
I definitely saw improvement and progress in my Thanksgiving decisions and prep this year, which enabled me to better enjoy the celebration from the cooking to the sitting and visiting with family!
So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you…”
James 4:7-8 NLT
With the December and the Christmas season upon us, trust me, you will not regret taking time regularly to come close; then GO and thoroughly enjoy those celebrations!
Simply Celebrate With Jackie 