Have you seen those sitcoms where the busy protagonists bustle around and tell people to walk with them? I got reminded of this because I used to be one of those people before covid. Confessions time, I used to have people walk with me if they need time with me between meetings. They would accompany me right up to the conference door from my office door to get two words in and a request for follow up. Do not get me wrong, I was busy but most importantly, I was a busy body. Like Martha.
‘And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” ‘
-Luke 10: 41-42
It took me a Bible study of “Having a Mary heart in a Martha world” by Joanna Weaver to realize what I was doing wrong. I was prioritizing busyness and accomplishment over love and compassion. Work needed to get done and I was doing the best I could. Filling my daily task list and going above and beyond. The results spoke for themselves. But what did people think when they needed my time and advice?
Up until today, I would have said that I learnt a lot from that Bible study and that I prioritize God and people over results and accomplishments. But I would be wrong. This morning on my walk, I did it again! I told Jesus to walk with me. Yes, gasp! The Holy Spirit nudged me to rephrase and I said, “Sorry Lord, may I walk with You ?”.
‘ But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” ‘
-Luke 10: 40
I was telling Jesus what to do, just like Martha did. Please learn from my arrogance. What was wrong with my appealing to Jesus to walk with me?
- Prideful – this statement shows that I am at the center of my world and not Jesus.
- Disobedient – I am leading Him instead of following. I am telling the author of the universe to do something instead of submitting to His will.
- Unteachable – I think I know where to go and I am demonstrating unwillingness to learn and be open.
Thank God for the Holy Spirit and the gentle nudges. Maybe I will do better next time. Run up and catch up to Him with my little feet, I know He will wait for me.
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for your patience and willingness to transform a sinner like me. Your love carries me through the good and the bad times. Grant me the goodness to heed to your teaching and execute per your instructions. Amen.