Too Busy for Jesus?

Luke 10:40

 

40But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me."

 

The gift of serving and the subset of hospitality are very necessary gifts in the body of Christ. However, Martha's request is a typical request from one who does so much serving that they nearly burn out. The statistic in nearly any branch of Zion is 20% of the people do 80% of the work. It is a sad statistic to admit but true. It happens very often because people are more inclined to serve themselves rather than serving others. Martha's gift from God is that in serving, specifically in the area of hospitality. An explanation on the gift of hospitality is  provided by Kodachrome.org headed by Christ followers, Ken and Dawn Ellis:

 

Hospitality (Serving Gift) - The special ability God gives to some to provide

an open home and warm welcome to those in need of food, lodging, and

fellowship. It involves a readiness to invite strangers to your home (or

church) for the sake of the Gospel.

The divine enablement to care for people by providing fellowship, food,

and shelter.

People with this gift:

- provide an environment where people feel valued and cared for

- meet new people and help them to feel welcomed

- create a safe and comfortable setting where relationships can develop

- seek ways to connect people together into meaningful relationships

- set people at ease in unfamiliar surroundings.

Martha, though she was doing a great and necessary deed, forgot that Jesus himself was the gift and needed to spend time with Him. Being too busy leaves one little time to spend with Jesus. Remember, our God is a jealous God. What He wants most is us. The close relationship or intimacy is what our Lord desires.  How can you have a close relationship if you don't spend time with Him? It's the same as with a human relationship, you can't. Having a close relationship with Jesus requires prayer, quiet time to listen and time in the Word of God. Spending more time with Jesus helps you to use your gifts appropriately and keeps things in perspective so He gets the glory. Spending time with Jesus helps take the focus off of you and puts it back where it belongs. Learning at the feet of Jesus is a precious gift. What would you do if He wasn't there through the Holy Spirit to guide you?  The ability to serve others is part of the essence of who Jesus is. But how can you know who He is and carry this important aspect of Him if you refuse the gift of being in His presence?