ONLY ONE THING.......December

12/1/13 

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, He came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, 

“Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me 

to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

“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 10:38-42

This might be a meaningful passage for us to keep in mind this holiday season. Like Martha, it is so easy to become stressed and upset in the midst of labor intensive Christmas preparations. We can become frustrated, short and angry with fellow drivers and shoppers, temporary inexperienced store clerks, and with our “reluctant to help” kids and husbands.

However, perhaps if we quiet ourselves and listen we just may hear the Master whisper, “few things are needed- or indeed only one.” 

Wouldn't our loved ones be blessed if we spent more time seeking the Lord for them rather than shopping excessively for them? Wouldn't our families and friends benefit if we exhibited the Fruit of the Spirit this season rather than frantically trying to provide a lavish banquet in a meticulously decorated home? Balance is always the key and the Holy Spirit can lead us in how to prepare the externals of the Christmas holiday intertwined with the spiritual blessings of God's Kingdom.....righteousness, peace, and joy. 

Jesus can give us creative ideas on how to present the gospel message at our holiday gatherings and activities. As we spend extra time at Jesus feet each morning and throughout the day we can be filled with the Spirit and be led to do the will of the Father as we journey towards the celebration of the birth of His son.

By Cathy Friberg