Distractions and priorities!

Luke 10:38-42 is a great example of things that distract from joy. It is the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus came to share an evening with them and Martha, in true womanly fashion, was distracted by preparing a fantastic meal and making everything just perfect; while Mary, on the other hand, sat at Jesus feet and just enjoyed being in His presence. Although Jesus appreciated Martha's efforts, He would rather she prepared a simple meal, so that they could all sit down and make the most of their time together. Martha's hostess duties were distracting her from what was really important. I do not think it right to judge which of the ladies "loved" Jesus more. Martha was showing love by serving and Mary was showing love by spending quality time with her Lord. However, I am glad that Jesus draws our attention to which is the greater priority. Doing things for Him should not take priority over just being with Him.
"Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation." Habakkuk 3:18

"You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in your presence."
Acts 2:28

Which are you, Friend? A Martha, or a Mary? I know that if the Lord were in my home, I would've probably been a Martha...worried about making everything "just right" for Him. But this story speaks to me in the fact that Jesus lives in my heart and in my home, and its OK that things in my life are hectic and disheveled. Christ does not require a tidy house and a 7 course meal in order to feel welcome. All He wants is our complete attention and adoration of Him. I love that!! Leaves me less to worry about. 

"We like sheep..." I am constantly reminded of this phrase when faced with the need to re-prioritize. Notice the life and priorities of a sheep. What do they do day in & day out? They are fed, clothed and cared for by the Shepherd and all they do is belong to Him. John 10:4 says, "And when He brings out His own sheep; He goes before them; and the sheep follow Him for they know His voice." Our sole purpose is to be with Him!! Doesn't that just make you jump for joy?!! 

Find Joy in Him, Beloved!

Thank You!

Joy is unattainable without a thankful heart! Count your blessings and give thanks!

"Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men." Psalm 107:15

"In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

"Now therefore, our God, we thank You and praise Your glorious name." 1 Chronicles 29:13

Find Joy in Him, Beloved!

A great, familiar song by the Newsboys:

You give me joy thats unspeakable
And I like it, I like it yeah
Your love for me is irresistible
I can't fight it, I can't fight it

If life is water, I was dry as the Tucson dirt
If it's a gamble, I'd already lost my shirt
If it's a journey, I was dazed without a clue
I flipped a "U" back to the first love I ever knew

CHORUS
You give me joy that's unspeakable
And I like it, and I like it yeah
Your love for me is irresistible
I can't fight it, I can't fight it yeah
You carried the cross and took my shame
I believe it, I believe it yeah
You shine your light of amazing grace
I receive it, I receive it yeah

If life's a battle, the invasion is complete
If it's a rhythm, I have found the perfect beat
If it's a renaissance, I've got a new birthday
The world don't give it
And the world can't take it away

CHORUS

Bowed and broken, everything's new
All that I need, you're like water to seed
And how your love, rights everything wrong
In my weakness
You're ever stronger, you're pulling me back
Where I belong


Find Joy in Him, Beloved!