For most of my adult life I have spent my time and energy working to accomplish things, completing tasks and producing content. If I am not careful, the definition of my success can be tied to what I am doing. And if I’m honest, the pressure and worry that comes with it can feel suffocating.
Have you ever felt that way before? Like you never are quite doing enough? Or you’re doing so much and someone else is seemingly unaware and uninterested in helping you?
There is a story that we read about in the book of Luke 10:38-42. Jesus is at the house of Martha and Mary.
It says that Mary was simply sitting at the feet of Jesus as he taught. But Martha, her sister was “distracted by the big dinner she was preparing.” She eventually comes to Jesus and asks “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come help me.”
Jesus’ response is powerful. He says “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.”
As I think about the scene with Mary, Martha, and Jesus, I have to admit that there are times I have spent being worried and upset over the trivial things in life, just like Martha. And that distraction causes me to miss the opportunity to be concerned about the one thing that really matters.
Can you relate?
I can imagine that Martha had to ask herself an important question after Jesus responded. And I think it’s a question that we need to ask ourselves– where will you find me? Where will I be? Will I be busy, hurried and distracted or peaceful, present, and focused?
I am almost certain that when given the choice, we would choose the latter, to choose to be one who sits at Jesus feet rather than scurrying around the kitchen in haste.
We can’t go back and change what we have already done but today can be a moment where we choose to do something different.
I love the way that Jesus responds to Martha. He says, “my DEAR Martha…”. Jesus isn’t talking down to Martha, he is speaking with dignity as he addresses her. There is no shame or guilt, just an opportunity to approach it differently the next time.
I believe that Jesus is extending that same opportunity to you and me today.
The song “Where You’ll Find Me” is a song that was written from the perspective of the person who chooses to be like Mary – to sit at Jesus feet and be present in the moment with him.
Those moments are truly a gift and something to be treasured.
What would it look like for us to take a few moments today and approach Jesus like Mary did, to have no agenda and just be with Jesus?
Can I encourage you today to read this story from the book of Luke and listen to the song “Where You’ll Find Me.” Let those 5-10 minutes be the beginning of you sitting at the feet of Jesus.
Who knows, you just might discover a treasure that no business or worry could ever replace.
If this is a desire in your heart, pray this prayer with me:
Jesus,
Today I choose to slow down and sit down.
Forgive me for the times I am more focused on what I am doing for you.
Would you help me as I learn to just be with you?
Help me learn to savor the time we spend together,
and may it have an impact on who I am,
who I become,
and the things that I do.Amen
Where You’ll Find Me | First15 Worship feat. Mark Alan Schoolmeesters
