Open Home, Open Heart

Martha pursed her lips and clenched her jaw as she watched Mary, her sister, follow the men to sit at Jesus’ feet. Martha loved having Jesus in her home. He and his disciples were always welcome. Their visits were one of the joys of her life. But there was a lot to do, cooking and providing for so many men. It made her angry that Mary sneaked off when things were busiest.

Martha was secure in Jesus’ love for her. She told him exactly what she thought. Some say he rebuked her, but perhaps it is better called instruction: “‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her’.” (Luke 10:41-42) At that important moment, Mary was seeking the eternal; Martha was not. Martha learned something that day.

We are often reluctant to share our deepest feelings with the Lord. Irrationally, we believe if we don’t say it, he won’t know it. The Lord wants us to be totally honest and open with him. He can surely handle our strongest emotions. As we confess our struggles, we lay down our pride and learn from his counsel, like Martha did.

Excerpt from the Women of Faith Study Bible, NIV

Holiday Survival Tips

The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people. If you’re one of them, here are some tips to help you survive and thrive during this very busy time.

• Remember the real reason for the holiday – whether Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s, there’s a reason for celebrating and it all begins with being thankful for your blessings and the gift of Jesus Christ.
• Ask for help – don’t try to do everything by yourself;  Wonder Woman is only a television show.
• Forget perfect – try not to stress yourself out with finding the perfect gift, planning the perfect day, buying the perfect dress, etc.
• It’s all about them – the holiday season is a great time to focus on and enjoy spending time with family and friends.
• Allow Jesus to fill your empty places – don’t allow food, alcohol or gifts be your means of filling any empty spaces you might have in your life. Jesus is the only one who can fill your heart hunger.
• Write your vision – have a clear vision of what and how you want your holiday season to be; write it down and share it with the people you’ll be spending this time with.
• Have an attitude of gratitude – take a few minutes each day, starting right now, to write out everything you’re grateful for.
• Move more – exercise is the one of the best ways to have less stress. Another benefit is that it can help you not gain those five extra pounds that many people gain between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.

Please feel free to share your favorite survival tip.

Have a blessed and happy Thanksgiving!