“Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. 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.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.'” “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life —is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.” Luke 10:38-42; 1 John 2:15-17
I was jolted a few days ago as I drove by a yard, struck by the splash of holiday decor. While every imaginable color and shape and expression played with my eyes as I scoped out the “Where’s Jesus?” scene, I finally located the manger. Ah, He is there!
I could not help but think of all the distractions toying with our celebration of the birth of the Christ child, and how I want to be like Mary. All sparkle and frivolity and gift elves and yummies aside, where is my real treasure this Christmas?
With the lure of savoring holiday delicacies, will we take time to taste and be satisfied with our Lord? (Psalm 34:8; 81:16)
Beyond the banter of sales slogans and jingle bells, have we quieted our hearts to contemplate the meaning of Silent Night? Is all calm and bright in our soul? If not, is there someone with whom we need to reckon to be able to sleep in heavenly peace?
In the midst of listing and shopping and wrapping, and even the joy of giving, are we deeply thankful for the greatest gift we have in Jesus, our salvation? (2 Corinthians 9:15; James 1:17)
As we take time to adorn our homes and tables and bodies with gleam and festivity, do we take time to consider the hidden person of the heart? Would we put on the Lord Jesus Christ and dress in His attributes? (Romans 13:14; Colossians 3:12-14; 1 Peter 3:4)
If my life were a yard, could those driving by or stopping to look and chat see Jesus?
Lord Jesus, may I always choose the good portion of being with You, and share that good portion with an anxious, frenzied world. In my every encounter, may Your heavenly peace and the pure light of Your holy, tender, and mild love radiate redeeming grace through my actions and demeanor.
As the rain and snow 