“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat – for he grants sleep to those he loves.”
Psalm 127: 1-2 (NIV)
In the light of the current season we are going through, the heart of this week, is to help us navigate and consider embracing a more sustainable way of living by prioritising our connection to God and our connection to each other.
“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’ ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but few are needed – or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’”
Luke 10: 38 - 42 (NIV)
Martha was distracted by many things. In life, we may have many things competing for our attention. But we are not to be distracted by them. Many options does not mean more opportunities. Sometimes, when there are too many options, there is less clarity. We need boundaries to be able to create constructively. Limits give definition to opportunity. Boundaries bring blessing. (Psalm 1:1) Jesus says that only a few things are needed, or indeed only one. And that Mary had chosen what is better. She sat and listened at the feet of Jesus. We too, are to humble ourselves, stop and listen to what Jesus is saying. Truth travels on the frequency of humility.
God wants to encourage us and give us clarity, meaning, purpose and vision for our lives. As we surrender our lives and submit to God, then comes the victory!!! (James 4:7)
SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT
- Reflect/share about how you have been dealing with the challenges of this current season.
- During this season of Covid-19/isolation, have you found opportunities to readjust your pace of life to have more time, energy and focus for the priorities of life? (Areas to discuss could include: Trust in God, honouring the Sabbath - rest and work balance, time for family and friendships, living within our means – finances, Health - physical and mental etc)
- What is a Next Step, we can take, to intentionally, stop and listen to what Jesus is speaking to our hearts? Discuss practical ways in which can make more space and time to meet with God during our day to day rhythm of life.
- Who can we reach out and connect to this week? Listen to the voice of God and reach out and bless someone – perhaps with an encouraging phone call, meal delivery/practical assistance/gift or a smile that says “I see you”…
