BY JESSICA LANDMON
The Christmas rush is nearing its end. Hopefully, your presents are bought and wrapped, the grocery shopping is done, and the cooking preparation is underway. I know it’s been a lot of work, but you are almost at the finish line.
But before you rush away the next few days, I encourage you to stop and remember why you are doing all this in the first place—to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior with those who are most precious to you. And as much as all the pressing details have taken priority, this year I encourage you to try something different and have a “Mary” Christmas.
I’m not talking about Jesus’s mother—although that could be a blog for another time. I’m referring to Mary, Martha’s sister. Many of us are familiar with the story of these two sisters. Jesus and His disciples were coming to their home for dinner, and Martha was running around frantically trying to pull the event together. Martha was so focused on the details that come along with entertaining that she missed Jesus altogether. Sound familiar?
The only time she broke away from her preparation to see Jesus was to complain to Him that Mary wasn’t helping her out in the kitchen. To be completely honest, I would be annoyed too. But Mary wasn’t just being lazy and refusing to help. Unlike Martha, Mary realized that this time with Jesus was too valuable to pass up. She sat at Jesus’s feet, intently listening to His stories and His teachings. Mary chose what was better.
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” –Luke 10:41-42
Now Christmas dinner isn’t going to cook itself, and those presents won’t wrap themselves either. But, before you dive into the final Christmas rush, stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and sit at the feet of Jesus just like Mary did. Pray this with me now.
Dear Jesus,
I lay down all my plans and efforts and put them at your feet. Help me to remember why I’m celebrating in the first place. Let me enjoy time in your presence, rest in your care, and hear your heart. Forgive me for not putting you at the center of my Christmas plans, and let me bring honor to you in all that I do. In Jesus’s name. Amen
Sweet friend, you’ve got this. I assure you that if you spend time with Jesus first, the rest of your to-do list will be much easier to tackle. Let’s not forget that it’s been about Him the whole time. And may I be the first of many to wish you a very “Mary” Christmas!