Liz’s Morning Devotional based upon Upper Room
September 28, 2021
Read Luke 10:38-42
38 While Jesus and his disciples were traveling, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him as a guest. 39 She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his message. 40 By contrast, Martha was preoccupied with getting everything ready for their meal. So Martha came to him and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to prepare the table all by myself? Tell her to help me.” 41 The Lord answered, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things. 42 One thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the better part. It won’t be taken away from her.”
Good Morning! God is with us always! Hallelujah!
God’s mysterious ways are at work in my life today. My dear friend, Mary, lost her sister, Martha, this week. May God fill her family and friends with love and peace as they prepare to celebrate her life.
This passage has been a guide to me in recent years. As a young hostess, I too, was distracted and worried by many things like perfect table settings, delicious food, and cleaning the dishes. One day, it occurred to me that I was being like Martha and I was missing being truly present with my guests.
I love decorating my home, setting a table with the beautiful serving pieces, and preparing a wonderful meal, but once the guests arrive I should spend time with them. I realized that I needed to work on being more like Mary. I don’t want to miss even a moment of their presence and our fellowship together. If that means a simpler meal served on disposable plates, then that’s what I am choosing. Our time together is too precious to waste it on unnecessary things. Listen and Rejoice!
We should practice being like Mary when we are spending time together with God. Just as Simeon, the listener, we must be intent on listening. Open your hearts, souls, and minds to God’s words as you join together.
Loving God, Thank You for loving us. Help us to be present with those who are around us. Let us not get distracted by unnecessary things. Time together is precious. Thank you for always being present with us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Listening is a spiritual gift that I can offer someone today.
Listen, God is with you! Pastor Liz
I got the connection as soon as I started reading the scripture. And, I also need to remember the context of your message. Thanks.