Loving Jesus In A Busy World

Loving Jesus In A Busy World

Text: Luke 10:38-42

This short historical account is only mentioned once in the book of Luke. In spite of its small place in the canonical gospels, it will continue to give wisdom to Christians throughout the ages!

Now, often times when we come to this passage, we quickly jump to how Martha was worldly and Mary was godly. How Martha done everything wrong and Mary did everything right. Well, even though the climatic point of this account is how Mary chose the “good thing,” Martha’s character does bring some important things for us to emulate in our lives.

It would be foolish for us to miss what both women bring to the table for our soul’s growth. These women work together to teach us the value of women’s contribution to the family and ministry and how our responsibilities should NEVER detract us from personal growth in and worship to Jesus Christ.

Even though I am directing today’s message toward the women (especially the mothers), the applications of this Biblical account is far reaching to every man, woman, boy, girl, youth and senior. Let us all glean from these two woman what it means to have a balanced life that leaves us investing in the BEST THINGS.

1) Martha’s Contribution

A. Martha’s Hospitality

Jesus was welcome!

She was ready to receive Jesus in to her home.

Martha Illustrates to us how our homes are a dwelling place for Jesus and a ministry hub for the gosepl.

Divine goodness and blessings enters the house that welcomes Jesus.

Luke 19:6 “6 And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.” (zacchaeus)

Acts 17:7 “7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.”

James 2:25 “25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?”

B. Martha’s heart for service

A mother’s work is never done!

Let’s refresh our minds with what the duties of a wife and mother of the first century was:

Baking, plowing, sowing harvesting, wool washing, protecting the flocks, wool spinning, weaving, market, raising the children, etc...

In spite of all her potential responsibilities, she welcomed Jesus and was JOYFUL to serve Him.

She did not approach serving Jesus as an afterthought or burden.

Remember, Jesus was getting positive and negative attention. She was not fearful of her service being public.

Mom — If you kids only had your example, would they be heavily influenced to put Christ first (or) get lost in the business of life?

2) Mary’s Contribution

A. Her closeness to Jesus

Mary was a woman just like Martha; same responsibilities. NOTICE THE DIFFERENT APPROACH.

This shows you that a “true believer” has the ability and desire to remain close to Jesus while surrounded by life’s to-do’s.

There is a growing problem in church culture around this area (probably a lot of other places too):

Some church members want to follow, but do it on their terms.

Some church members want to serve Christ, but never present when the work needs to be done.

Some church members want to worship, but Jesus will understand if I spend half that time in self-worship.

Mary shows every mother today that “cross bearing” is not beneath you and is within the ability the Holy Spirit has given you!!!

Matthew 16:24 “24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.”

Mary understood that believers MUST crucify their flesh continually in order to “come to Him.”

You might ask, “What exactly would motivate Mary to have the strength to tune the world and all responsibilities out for this moment?” She simply lived with amazement of God’s grace she has received.

BE the mother who’s children witness living out the amazement you have for God’s love for you.

B. Her intention to listen to Jesus

Mary was simply MAKING TIME to worship her Savior.

If anyone makes time to worship and grown in Jesus it will have to be you!

If there is one thing a family needs from mom it is this: Someone who is seen at Jesus’ feet.

Those who MAKE TIME, GET TIME!

DAD/HUSBAND, this is where your ministry to your wife kicks in!!!

God did not make a mistake by giving us 24 hours in a day!

3) Christ Honoring Balance

As always, Jesus clearly shows us where the balance is:

Notice how Jesus never condemned Martha’s service, but simply pointing out that “time with Jesus” should always proceed “doing for Jesus.”

While Martha was wanting help serving, Mary wanted help growing.

While Martha drew close to service, Mary drew close to her Savior.

While Martha drew night to worry, Mary drew nigh to worship.

Martha learned

It is easy for us to undervalue being still and having quiet time with Jesus.

Without the “still” moments with Jesus, our “active” moments for Jesus will never sustain health momentum.

Illustration: Think about how long you moms can go at the pace you do without physical nourishment?

Your main calling as a mother begins being fed by Jesus Christ.

Question: How well are you doing keeping your kids close to Jesus at home?

Conclusion

Mom, dad, or whoever you are, there truly is ONE THING that is needful for you soul today; believe on Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord!

Christ was not only encouraging these ladies, but everyone of us here today to be singled-eyed and whole-hearted.