Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I have something very important to … SQUIRREL! Now, where was I? Oh yeah, something really important … which escapes my mind right now. SQUIRREL! Hey, we all get distracted. Whether it’s squirrels, shiny objects, or something else. We’re easily distracted from the important things we need to stay focused on by things that draw our attention in other directions.
People can even be distracted from someone as important as Jesus by “shiny things”! If you don’t believe it, look at Martha, Lazarus’ sister. Jesus was traveling through the land, focused on His return to Jerusalem when Martha invited Him to her house. However, despite the honor of Jesus’ presence, she became distracted by other things while Jesus sat down to teach. Her sister Mary was riveted to Jesus though. She sat at Jesus’ feet absorbing everything He said. Martha wasn’t happy with Mary’s focus complaining, “Jesus, shouldn’t my sister be helping me out!?” Jesus responded, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)
While Martha was certainly doing a good thing, caring for Jesus; Mary was doing a better thing, paying attention to Jesus. There would be time after His teaching to take care of other things. But first things first, listen to Jesus - then, based on His word, act.
It’s an important lesson for all of us. I know I get distracted while trying to focus on Jesus in my devotions and prayers - bills to pay, people to talk to, things to do. These “shiny objects” vie for my attention as I try to spend time at Jesus’ feet each day. Thankfully the Holy Spirit draws me back to Jesus who’s waiting patiently for my return. He calms my anxiety, eases my troubles, enables me to regain my focus. That’s what I wanted to say - it’s important we spend time with Jesus to receive His guidance before facing the world’s distractions.
In Christ’s Peace,
Pastor Jim