Two Sisters
Scripture – John 12:1-3: Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Martha and Mary are two interesting New Testament characters. They represent a couple different aspects of the church. Here, Martha is serving the dinner. She seems to be the practical one. She might teach a course in Applied Theology. Mary, on the other hand, has a different role. She’s honoring Jesus – even worshipping Him with this expensive gift and act. She might teach a course on Spiritual Formation. The church needs both. I need both. If my inner, spiritual devotion leads to no outward, practical service, I’m like a fruitless tree. Likewise, if I only spend my time doing good works without taking time for spiritual nourishment and direction, I’ll lose sight of why I’m doing anything at all. I’ll easily start serving my own need to be needed and/or I’ll burn out and quit.
Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will nurture both aspects of my life. Specifically, I’ll work on the service side of things. I’ll look for a simple, practical way to serve Christ during the week.
Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please help me learn from Martha. I’ve gained a lot from Mary. Begin moving me into new areas of service on your behalf. Show me your way. Thanks.
An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Bethel Baptist (Trenton & Venness in Southgate) this morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.
Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Martha and Mary are two interesting New Testament characters. They represent a couple different aspects of the church. Here, Martha is serving the dinner. She seems to be the practical one. She might teach a course in Applied Theology. Mary, on the other hand, has a different role. She’s honoring Jesus – even worshipping Him with this expensive gift and act. She might teach a course on Spiritual Formation. The church needs both. I need both. If my inner, spiritual devotion leads to no outward, practical service, I’m like a fruitless tree. Likewise, if I only spend my time doing good works without taking time for spiritual nourishment and direction, I’ll lose sight of why I’m doing anything at all. I’ll easily start serving my own need to be needed and/or I’ll burn out and quit.
Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will nurture both aspects of my life. Specifically, I’ll work on the service side of things. I’ll look for a simple, practical way to serve Christ during the week.
Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please help me learn from Martha. I’ve gained a lot from Mary. Begin moving me into new areas of service on your behalf. Show me your way. Thanks.
An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, join us at Bethel Baptist (Trenton & Venness in Southgate) this morning, 9:45 – 10:30am.
1 Comments:
"Two Sisters". It's interesting that at this morning's discussion, no one even recognized that 'Martha served'. We were all led only to Mary's actions and how they revealed her love and complete devotion to Jesus. This makes me wonder what similar action would/could compare in today's world? And would I be willing to do that, as Mary did, without :
1. Hesitation?
2. Embarrassment?
3. Considering the cost?
4. Fear of criticism?
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