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Mary Christmas Part II
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“But only a few things are necessary, really only one, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:42 (NASB)
Perhaps by now you have concluded that this three-part message is a play on words. Isn’t that just what we need in a world convoluted with clichés? However when properly utilized - a play on words can provoke the brain into deep thought. When God gets us thinking, great and marvelous things can occur!
This passage in Luke may be overly familiar for all of you out there afflicted with Martha-ism. Of course, you know I am truly sympathetic toward Martha. Nevertheless, I have to side with Christ on this one. Martha needed to simplify. It is hard but I am learning to simplify. The older I get the more simplification agrees with me. Unfortunately, there are a few times of the year where it is far too easy to be caught up in busyness. Birthday parties, family reunions, Thanksgiving, and you guessed it, Christmas.
Let me proclaim loudly and clearly for all to hear, I am not against preparation, going the extra mile or even two. There is truly something almost magical about getting the Martha Stewart thing done! No pun on names intended. Yet, life teaches great lessons and one just happens to be – be careful of so preparing for the main thing, that you miss the main thing. It is not within my nature to fault Martha for doing the chores and trying her best to provide for the Master. I probably would do exactly the same thing. I doubt the Lord missed her intentions in her preparations either. Yet, there is such a thing as moderation or miss it!
Many years ago, before my Dad remarried, Bob and I would visit him over the weekend of Thanksgiving. Dad always asked for my grocery list in advance of our arrival, and viola, he had the pantry stocked before we pulled in the driveway. Then on Thanksgiving morning, I would begin cooking and getting things ready for the big meal! Of course, after the big meal was the big clean up. I did dishes while longing for a big nap. Bob and Dad talked, watched some TV, then we all went for a long walk. The whole process, as you well know, took most of the day. Now don’t get me wrong I loved it! It was a gift for my dad and I didn’t go without a blessing.
After two years of the same process, Dad pulled a fast one. I got up there and the rascal had brought a ham that was already cooked. What no turkey! I enjoy ham, but I am a turkey girl (no comments). It caught me a bit off guard but Dad’s defense was he felt bad because I spent so much time in the kitchen therefore, we missed out on precious time together. The most important aspect of our weekend was not food, but family. Well you know what they say: Father knows best!
That is exactly what Jesus was trying to get across to Martha. He knew their time together was short. Options were limited. Now was the time to throw together a casserole instead of a seven-course meal. Mary had noticed the necessity of the moment and received praise for it.
The best part is when, like Mary and my Dad, we choose the good part – it cannot be taken away. When we properly access a situation and plan accordingly to need and necessity, we will keep the “main thing” the “main thing”. My challenge for you today is to look for new ways to make your Christmas marvelous but also “Mary”. Trust me, no one will remember a Martha Christmas as much or as fondly as they will remember a Mary Christmas.
What else can I say but, Mary Christmas!
Barbara
Ministry Partner/Pocket Full of Change
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