The Best

Aug 14, 2021

Only one life, will soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last.

- C.T. Studd

Pastor Jared reminded us this past weekend through the story of Mary and Martha how easily we get worried and distracted by many things instead of focusing on the one thing that is necessary.

As much as I hate to admit it, I tend to be more of a Martha. It may be a holy coincidence (if there is such a thing), but I find myself a little overplanned this week and running a bit frantically. As I was preparing for a lunch meeting for our Shut-in Visitation Team and Prayer Ministry, I had to laugh at myself for all my running around to create a ‘perfect’ experience. My week is a flurry of events and meetings, while trying to slowly move back into our home after the remodel. What I’m doing is all “good'' but not if I don’t take time for the one thing that is necessary.

Tomorrow, Sunday, August 15, is National Relaxation Day! I read an article about how to celebrate. Spending the day in bed or indulging in a lucious, calorie ridden dessert are at the top of the list. Those didn’t particularly interest me, but the next two caught my attention. Meditate and perform an act of kindness. That sounds a lot like the one thing - sitting at the feet of Jesus - followed by acting on what He prompts in us, to show love to our neighbors through prayer.

The best example we have of someone who knew what it meant to sit at the feet of the Father was Jesus.

After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone.

- Matthew 14:23

After bidding them farewell, He left for the mountain to pray.

- Matthew 6:46

It was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God.

- Luke 6:12

In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there.

- Mark 1:35

My mentor encouraged me many years ago to spend time every day with my Bible open and in prayer. Lead by example the next generation. When our children were small, it was often during naptime on our closet floor. They knew where to look for me when they would wake from their naps. When they were in school, I’d spread out every morning at the kitchen table. When they’d come down for breakfast, that is where they’d find me. The house is quiet these days, but my morning ritual has become a habit. Every morning I’m on the back patio, covered with my quilt, candle lit, and during the winter, heater on high. I pray that the example I tried to set is one they can follow.

You see, when you start your day with the one thing, even if you find it filled with many things, you are able to respond with the heart and mind of Christ.

Tomorrow on National Relaxation Day, why don’t you consider setting your phone aside rather than letting it be the distraction of the day? Start your day with your Bible and in prayer, followed by being in community here at The Church at RB.

Jesus says,

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength and then Love your neighbor as yourself.”

- Mark 12:30-31