Between Faith and Works
I love this bible passage about Jesus’ visit to the home of Martha and Mary. Mary is more concerned about her house being clean for Jesus and Mary simply wants to spend time with Jesus and absorb his teachings.
Martha sees her day as a to-do list and ticks off the tasks. Mary spends her time being present and not worrying about what comes next.
Personally, I strive to balance good works and faith. I even make a list of projects and tasks to be accomplished that will help others. I feel sometimes I am missing the point. I rush to finish a compassion project and don’t take the time to appreciate what is happening.
The last few times we made shelter lunches, I rushed so quickly to purchase the supplies (bread, cheese, meat) that I miscounted the bread or cheese and didn’t buy enough. One time I loaded everything in my car to bring to church and left some of the turkey at home. Wow, what am I doing?
Finally, when I delivered the lunches to the shelter and spoke to the people receiving it, I saw the faith. It was the faith they saw in us that we would deliver. The smiles on the shelter residents’ faces were beaming. I instantly felt gratitude and love. On reflection, I don’t know where my faith was in the process. It feels out of balance.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Help me to slow down so I can focus my compassion for others in a graceful way. Amen
Liz Marks