As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said, But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself" Tell her to help me!" "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:38-42 NIV
Are you more like Mary or Martha? You see, Martha became busy about the details and the mere event that was happening. Mary, on the other hand, sensed the purpose of Jesus' visit. Martha desired Jesus to value her because of all that she was doing. While Mary, recognized His presence and valued Him.
During the Christmas Season.....
We will all encounter stressful opportunities. Stress is a "peace thief" in our lives. It is our choice whether we are going to have a stress-free Christmas or a stressed-out Christmas.
Ways to reduce Holiday Stress.....
Set realistic expectations for yourself. Are you distracted from the purpose of Jesus because of all the things that you are doing? Remember, Jesus said, "only one thing is needed." That is, to spend time with Him. Many times we spend so much time preparing for Christmas, we forget to prepare for Christ!
Remember why you are doing what you are doing. Your attitude means as much as your actions. You can choose a merry heart or a heavy heart. Having a Christ centered attitude relieves stress. The less stress, the more Christ can be seen in our lives!
Find out what stresses you, and don't do it. Martha was over-occupied and too busy in serving. It is important to be a giver, but not be stressed-out in giving. Guard yourself against stress. Demonstrate Christ's presence in your life.
Don't wait too long to put all of your hope, trust and confidence in God. Keep yourself full of the presence of God. Don't allow yourself to run on empty. Make sure that you are spending time with Him!
You can be spiritual magnet to the people around you! Remember, you are too blessed to be stressed!