It is Thanksgiving week. No doubt you and I are just like millions of other Americans scurrying around to prepare for the “perfect Thanksgiving.” Decorations, beautiful food, scrumptious sweet desserts, all wrapped up in a warm, cozy house, and a smile that will last for hours.
But today I am reminded of the sisters Mary and Martha. Also scurrying around the house to prepare a beautiful meal for the Lord, Jesus and his band of merry men. (Am I mixing my stories? I think not.)
Way too often I am Martha. Ten extra guests? No problem. Turkey not quite done? No problem. Dishes still left to do at midnight? Okay, problem.
Way too often I am the one complaining, “Lord! Make someone help me.”
Luke 10:38-42 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
I am writing today to encourage each of you to feed your soul this Thanksgiving first and foremost before feeding your body.
Before serving up the turkey and dressing spend some precious time giving Thanks and praise to the one who provides.
Before you serve the sweet potatoes consider the sweet promises that are given to us in abundance.
While the mashed potatoes and gravy are being whipped up give praise to the one who reminds us to be joyous, pray, and give thanks!
As the cranberry sauce is jelling, take time to love on family and friends.
Before the vegetables are passed around the table, take time to remember where our spiritual strength comes from.
And then comes the pie, oh, the pie.
This week take time “to choose the right thing.” The Martha in you (and me) can wait. Let’s sit at the feet of Jesus, praising him with a grateful heart this Thanksgiving.
Many Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving,
~Catherine
Thank you to Shannon at Sweet Blessings for the chalkboard verses!
was trying to say hello you all from the south to your friends.