Daily Devotional: Wednesday, Dec 30

Speaker: Paul Diaz

Theme: First Things First

Weekend Music links on iTunes: Break My Heart by Mike Flathers; Hosanna by Paul Baloche; Sing to the King by Passion Worship Band; Came to my Rescue by Hillsong.

Read: Luke 10:38-42; 2 Thessalonians 3:10         

Think: Over the weekend, Pastor Paul touched on the biblical account of Mary and Martha. As we think about priorities there is a great principle we learn from Jesus' interaction with these two women. In Luke chapter 10 it says Martha was "distracted with much serving" (v. 40) but Mary took the time to sit "at Jesus' feet" and listen to His teaching (v.39).

I identify so much more with Martha's viewpoint. In the Book of Proverbs there are many verses that chastise people who are lazy. And when some first-century Christians quit working and started to freeload off others in the church, the Apostle Paul laid down the rule: "If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat" (2 Thess. 3:10).

But as I think about the situation I wonder if perhaps Mary realized that she wouldn't have many more opportunities to learn from Jesus. She knew the value of time spent with her Lord. And Jesus' reply confirms it -- he said "Mary has chosen what is better" (v. 42).

Sometimes responsibilities/projects/to-do lists need to wait so that we can spend time with the Lord.  Work is important, but we can't allow it to crowd out our priority: worshiping God and spending time with Jesus and his Word.

Do: In your planner or calendar write in an appointment with Jesus everyday.

Pray: God, my time with you is precious and I want to make it (keep it) a priority. I know you want to meet with me each day, and I know it is so good for me in so many ways! Help me Lord to set aside my plans and honor that appointment each day to be with you. Amen.

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