It’s Up to You to Open Your Ears and Listen Carefully So You Do the Right Thing
How many Christians does it take to screw in a light bulb?
That’s a good question, but first…
Once again, this week we were blessed with a message from a guest speaker. Thanks to Sara Pines for her willingness to share God’s message in the absence of Pastor Lee!
Most of us are familiar with the story of Mary and Martha found in Luke 10:38-42.
In this passage Martha and Mary welcome Jesus and his disciples into their home. Martha is working hard preparing a meal and setting the table, trying to get everything ready. As she’s working, she gets frustrated with Mary, who is sitting in the other room listening to Jesus while Martha is working.
In her frustration Martha goes to Jesus and says, “Lord, doesn’t it bother you that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her to come and help me!”
Jesus replies, “Martha, Martha! You’re worried and upset about so many things, but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen what is best, and it will not be taken away from her.”
I used to struggle some with this Scripture.
It seemed to me that Martha’s work to serve Jesus was the more important task. The problem is that Martha had made this decision from her own worldly perspective. She had neglected to open her ears to what Jesus wanted her to do.
This is not to say that what she was doing was wrong or right…It is about partnering with God and getting His input.
Serving isn’t the same as slavery. Slavery is forced. Serving is voluntary.
Serving doesn’t have to be something monumental. It can be as simple as showing kindness by opening a door or simply smiling at people we meet.
Having the heart of a servant includes:
- Using Jesus as our role model
- Choosing to be last, not first
- Showing God’s love by loving others
- Considering other’s needs before your own
- Using your God given gifts to serve God
Serving others lights up the world around us. In Matthew 5:14-16, we are told to be the light of the world.
“A city built on top of a hill cannot be hidden, and no one lights a lamp and puts it under a clay pot. Instead, it is placed on a lampstand, where it can give light to everyone in the house.
Make your light shine, so others will see the good you do and will praise your Father in heaven.”
Back to the question, how many Christians does it take to screw in a light bulb?
None…As Christians we are the light of the world.
Listen carefully to God and find out how you can serve Him best and light up the world around you.
