My Dearest Sister sent me an email recently and it came at a great time because at times things can just get on top of you… Recently, my Hupps is doing his reservist and I feel as though there is a lot to do whenever he is not around! So yeah, great timing!
It is taken from “Heart Reflections Devotional” by Nanette Kinkade and some from my sister’s email!
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:9,10).
It is a new day, and as the foggy vision of sleepiness clears, the mountain of clothes to be laundered looms into view. Then come the thoughts of floors that need mopping, furniture that needs dusting, and that pie you promised to bake. Not to mention, of course the whole routine required to get the kids off to school. It seems that before your feet ever touch the floor, you’re tired again.
Sometimes it’s the menial tasks of everyday life that can take the most out of women. Perhaps because of its repetitive nature. Or maybe because our efforts are not always noticed. Not even paid. It is here that Satan hopes to defeat us–to distract us from the proper perspective, which (as in all things) is still found in Christ.
For Jesus Christ knows what it is to serve an inattentive and ungrateful world. The King of all creation actually washed His disciples’ feet. He died for people who didn’t even like Him. What an honor, then, it is for us women to be able to serve others in the same capacity as Christ. Whether it’s wiping little noses or cleaning off countertops, the more things we have to do, the more opportunities we have to bring Him honor. Though no one else may see or care, God does. And He receives each effort as a gift of thanks for the incredible sacrifice He gave us–Christ himself.
Father, What a wonderful calling you have given women to be able to serve in so many ways. Free me, Lord, from the sin of comparison and complaining, and instead fill me with a grateful heart that sees the best in every circumstance. Help me to remember that in everything I do–even in the smallest things–I do them for Your glory. Help me, too, to hold steady, knowing that the efforts produced by Your Spirit in me are never in vain.”
“You’ve heard about the story of Martha and Mary right? The two sisters, Mary was sat at Jesus’s feet, listening to him. Martha was busy busy preparing food for Jesus and his 12 disciples; Martha got angry because she didnt have any help at all, and Jesus told Martha off because she was in a mood. Many people use that as an example and say that those who are Martha’s miss out on so much, like spending time with Jesus [what Mary was doing]… thus missing out on a lot of great opportunities. But I’ve heard other things: that it’s ok to be a Martha–the doer. Things do get done, if it wasn’t for Martha, Jesus and his 12 disciples would be hungry for the rest of the night.”
I used to be annoyed that I was the one doing, what I felt, everything…. But looking at the bigger picture, we all have our own roles and yeah – I’ve finally realised that it’s ok to be the ‘Doer’! And like my sister had pointed out to me, I have been a Martha all my life… But actually, I don’t mind it anymore… 🙂 Ofcos, it’s good to be appreciated by others, but not everyone will always appreciate it – but at least I feel happy, so all’s good 🙂 One thing I do need to learn is to have a break and ask for help – something which my husband always tells me! “Take a break.. take a rest!” I suppose, it wouldn’t be me, if I decided to be Mary!
Thought I’d share the email with you all x