“As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing.” Luke 10:38-40 (ESV)
“I’m really going to miss you, Nan.”
My three-year old granddaughter was sad because we were going to be leaving that day after a week’s visit. We had enjoyed our time together, just hanging out, and doing things together. There is absolutely no doubt that we love each other and she is very vocal about it. In her mind, when we are together, my focus needs to be on her and her brother, not elsewhere.
Her comment made me stop and think. How does my Heavenly Father, who loves me unconditionally, feel about me when my mind is not focused on Him, but instead I am distracted and worried about so many things? I quickly identify myself as a Martha in Luke’s story of these two sisters, distracted by so many things. I realize that I miss just sitting at the Lord’s feet. I say that I love Him, but do my thoughts and actions reflect that love?
The older I get the more I realize that anxiety and worry are not signs of my love for God. Instead they reflect a heart that is not practicing His presence. When I find myself focusing on those things, do I realize that I am missing the presence of the Father? He hasn’t moved, but I have turned away and instead lost my focus.
When too many things consume your mind, do you ever stop to listen to the still, small voice of your Heavenly Father saying: “I miss you my child”?
Heavenly Father, I confess that so many things easily distract me. Instead help me to sit at your feet and be reminded of your love for me, to listen to Your voice, and hear what You are saying to me.
Take Action
Are you distracted by so many things today? Do worry and anxiety consume your thoughts instead of thoughts of God’s great love for you?
For one week, write down the last thing you think about at night and the first thing on your mind in the morning? What consumes your thoughts? Take them to prayer and let God cast your anxiety away.