Devotion
Martha or Mary
Frances Taylor
The age old question of who's right! There's a commercial for an automobile company that uses the slogan of "either/or, or both/and" that I kind of like. Not that I'm supporting the company, but because I believe we sometimes think in an either/or way when it's really important to be a both/and kind of person. In today's gospel, Martha is busy about hospitality and Mary extends hospitality in a quieter manner. We need both, and we need to be both. There are times when we need to be about doing what Jesus tells us to do, but if all we do is "do" and we don't take the time to listen, we just might get it wrong. Mary sits and listens to Jesus while Martha feels overwhelmed with her tasks. When Martha complains, Jesus tells her not to be anxious and worried, and I think that here is the key. When we take the time to sit and listen to Jesus and then move on to follow the will of God, we don't have to be anxious and worried; we can relax in the knowledge ...
Morning Prayer
But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.
Inspiration
Here, Peter and John talk about their almost inability to stay silent about God's grace and divine doings. So too, should we share our message with others, our hearts like cups overflowing with love. In the face of skeptics no harm, no words and no threats may close our mouths for good! For He is there to give us strength, and the truth in the end, is always revealed.
Prayer
Lord my Heavenly Father, please provide for the strength to carry forward your word unto all those who need it the most. Let me share my joy and praise, my love and devotion with all those who doubt. May my heart be as open as my mouth Lord, sharing your message or singing a psalm. Amen.
Night Prayer
But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.
Inspiration
Looking back on life, we observe countless moments when God has intervened in our lives or the lives of others. His bestows upon us numerous blessings and miracles beyond our understanding. We each have a story to tell and a witness to share. We will shout praises to God from the mountaintops and continue to look for opportunities to tell all we meet about the mighty works of the Lord.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we all have a story to tell about Your goodness and mercy. Help us see opportunities to share Your precious gift of salvation. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
