The Center for Leadership Excellence, in partnership with COSROW, is pleased to lift up the voices of women in ministry encouraging fellow women in ministry. Please enjoy this month’s Encouragement from Kristina Yeatts, Pastor of Elizabeth UMC and Asbury UMC in Smithfield. Anyone can sign up to receive Encouragement emails here.
One of my favorite Bible stories is the story of Mary and Martha found in the Gospel of Luke. I like this story because Jesus’ description of Martha could be a description of each of us: “worried and distracted by many things.”
Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10:38-42 (NRSV)
No one needs to tell us that Christmas is a busy season. There are so many things that claim our attention and time. There are presents to be purchased and wrapped, homes to be decorated, worship services to be planned, music to be rehearsed, and food to be prepared. These often are worthwhile, enjoyable, and pleasant activities, as long as we do not lose sight of why we are celebrating and what we celebrate. All our activities and our celebration aim to focus our eyes and hearts on the birth of God’s son, Jesus Christ.
Priorities are what this story is all about. What is important and what is secondary. Martha chooses one way and Mary another. Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem when he stops by the home of Martha and Mary. Martha is hard at work preparing for their honored guest. Martha rushes around while Mary sits at Jesus’ feet listening. As a result, Martha gets upset and goes to Jesus for support; but Jesus gently rebukes her saying, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing.” (verses 41-42)
“Worry” here means to be torn in two directions; to be pulled apart. That is what happened to Martha. That is what happens to us. What is worrying and distracting you? What needs to be pushed aside, so you can focus only upon the Lord?
Martha’s priorities were mixed up. She missed out on what was important for what was not as important. We do the same as individuals. In this task-oriented culture, we measure everything by busyness–how many meetings we have, how many programs we offer, how many needs are met. All these things may be important, but we make a great mistake when we assume true life in Christ can be measured by such things. True life in Christ is found in the fellowship, friendship, and closeness we share with the one we call Lord and Savior, as Mary did so long ago.
Take Action: Be still, give your full attention to Jesus, and practice the spiritual disciplines.
In partnership,
Center for Leadership Excellence and the Commission on the Status and Role of Women