It’s that time again! I am linking up with the talented writers over at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com
The prompt today is “Settle”.
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “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.” Luke 10:41-42 (NIV) / Pixabay
I didn’t settle down to write today until supper was cooked and the mess cleaned up. My day just got in my way. There were phone calls to make, laundry to finish, and preparations for the Sunrise Service at our church to be made. Before I knew it, the sun had set and I hadn’t even turned on my laptop. I’d planned to write after lunch but despite my best intentions, I was distracted by my to do list.
I’m here to tell you my prayer life isn’t much different. I begin my day with the best of intentions: coffee, devotions, and prayer. The reality is more like: coffee, Facebook, and more coffee. When I finally do settle down to spend time in prayer, my day gets in my way! In the midst of my gratitude is my grocery list. Smack in the middle of my confessions are the contacts I need to make. One minute I’m naming my joys and the next, I’m naming jobs that need to be done.
Sound familiar? Jesus had come to visit Mary and Martha. Mary settled in next to Him but the Bible tells us Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. There was food to cook, dishes to wash, and guests to serve. So, just like me, Martha’s day got in the way of her spending time with Jesus. Maybe you can relate, too.
Martha asked Jesus for help with her to do list. He gave her so much more! He gave her Himself! He’s inviting us today to also let go of those things that worry and upset us and choose the Only thing we need! I don’t want to just settle for distracted prayer. I want to, like Mary, choose what is better! How about you?
Time’s up!
Cindy, such a great post! I needed this. Today. God knew. 🙂
Loved this: “He’s inviting us today to also let go of those things that worry and upset us and choose the Only thing we need! I don’t want to just settle for distracted prayer. I want to, like Mary, choose what is better!”
Now, to live with perspective in the midst of crazy seasons. 🙂
And in not so crazy seasons! I’m in the best season of my life for a devoted prayer life and yet I am still struggling. Ugh! Maybe we can pray for each other to do what it takes to chose what is better! Thank you so much, Jeanne for your encouraging words!
Serve like Martha; Love like Mary. xo
It is all about balance, isn’t it Susan! I just have to remind myself who is in control and who isn’t ( me)!? Thanks for stopping in!
I, too, have struggled being at times Mary but oftener Martha.
Good Reminder to chose the ‘good part’.
I have to remind myself all the time Leslie……way more than I should! Thank you for finding time in your day to comment! Happy Easter, Cindy
I definitely relate to this, Cindy! It’s easy to have good intentions but then to get distracted by all the things we have to do. There’s a lot we can learn from Mary’s example about our priorities and what’s really important!
You’re so right Lesley! The worst part f it is I’m retired now and have so much more control of my time. Making devotion and prayer a priority is a must for me! No excuses! I need lots of prayer for sure! Thanks for taking your time to comment! Cindy