Have a Mary Heart

Wow.  Last night was our first ladies’ Bible study for this year.  Our book, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, by Martha Peace,  began with a very convicting first chapter.  No easing into the idea that I really have a Martha spirit…no, we were all hit with the very ugly truth on the first night of our study – It’s easier to be busy working than to sit quietly and worship. 

My friend, Ethel Johnson taught our lesson and stomped so sweetly on my toes.  She shared an acrostic using both the women’s names – Mary and Martha, showing what they were really like.

Merciless
Argumentive
Restrained by earthly things
Temporal in thought
Harried
Angry

Meek
Avid to know Christ
Resting
Yearning to grow

Which list am I?  Which are you? 

Here are a few thoughts Ethel shared:

The world applauds achievement, but God wants companionship.

Make a list each day of things that need to be done, then give God the list.  For example:
On Monday, do a general housecleaning.
On Tuesday and Thursday do laundry.
On Wednesday do the shopping, but don’t do too much so you’ll be too tired for prayer meeting.
On Friday clean again so the house will be ready for the weekend.
Don’t do too much on Saturday so you’ll be ready for the Lord’s house on Sunday.
Adjust the schedule as needed. 
Turn the television off.  If Satan has your mind, he has won.

Jesus is the reviving waters we need.

Are we distracted by the electronics of this world?

Make spiritual application to each task you do.  While washing dishes…”Jesus makes me whiter than snow.”  While doing yard work…”the grass withers, but the Word of God will never fade.”  Keep your thoughts on the spiritual things.

Have you taken time yet today to sit in the “living room” at Jesus’ feet?  Yes, there are many things to do today, but the most important is quieting our heart before Him and letting Him give us our orders for the day.  Draw near and learn of Him before you put on your apron.

Here are a few pictures of our fellowship time that preceded our lesson in The Lost Art of Hospitality.

Acorn Donut Holes made by spreading a little chocolate frosting on the top of the hole, then rolling them in nuts or toffee bits, then adding half of a pretzel stick.

This was well liked!

 Spiced Cider
4 cups cider
2 cups Cranberry juice
2 cups Orange juice
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp. Allspice
2 sticks cinnamon

Combine and warm in crock pot.

Thursday’s post will have the hospitality tips on it.  If you missed the meeting last night, you can hear what we covered!

Who are you more often…Mary or Martha?  Me?  I relate to Martha all too well!  That little attitude ~ mmmhmm.  Thankful for God’s grace!

With love,