When Our Hearts are Worn: Are We Mary or Martha?

It’s hard to believe because the summer heat is still so intense, but autumn is knocking on our door. The deep greens of June and July have started to fade as the oak leaves have begun their gentle sing-song dance to the ground. The sweet sounds of geese flying south for the winter now fills the afternoon sky. 

Change is coming. Whispers of what is next is just around the bend. Hopeful anticipation, like that of a child, grows as we wait. 

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With what has been happening around our globe, it feels as if the world—hoping for the best but secretly dreading the worst—is also holding its breath for what is ahead. For from the moment the COVID-19 pandemic began, we have moved from the optimism of we are in this together to when will this all end? And now, with unrest and hatred seeming to bubble up just about everywhere, along with no real end to the illness that has engulfed the world, our worn-out hearts and resolve feel stretched beyond reckoning. 

And yet, there is hope.

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This past week as I was pulling the never-ending weeds out of one of my flower beds, the story about Mary and Martha came to mind. Martha, harangued and harassed by getting dinner ready for Jesus and the disciples, was put-out with her sister, Mary, who had chosen to sit at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him instead of helping her. When Martha took Jesus aside, indignantly complaining about Mary’s audacious behavior, He gently reminded Martha that Mary was doing what was most important. Mary was looking to Him. (See Luke 10:38-42.)

Remembering Mary and Martha’s story was the Lord’s tender nudge for me to look to Him instead of my circumstances.

But do I do that? Do I trust Him with all I face, letting go so He can take control? Or do I hold onto my anxieties and burdens as if they are badges of courage? Do I truly believe Jesus when He calls me to come to Him and find rest for my soul?

Nothing that happens comes as a surprise to Jesus for He is sovereign. He is omnipresent and omniscient. He IS Lord of all. 

As there is quiet and calm in the eye of a hurricane, even with all that is swirling around us, if we look heavenward, we will find the Lord. And His Presence is our peace.

Dear Jesus, please keep my eyes on You and my heart listening and obedient to Your direction. Please forgive me when I hold on to worry instead of trusting You. Please keep me abiding in You and in Your love. Thank You, Lord. In Your name, Amen.

Kimberly