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Sabbath: Parishioner Reflections on the Jubilee
...it is a challenge to create moments to be quiet and open to God...
"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 all 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)
As the working mother of two small children, I identified with Martha in this story. I am often conscious only of what tasks need to get done during the day. As I look around my house, there is an endless amount of additional projects I’d like to complete. In this passage, Jesus says that, although my housework and projects have value, I must take time out to do the one thing that is needed; to let the chores lie for a time and to sit "at the Lord’s feet" and listen to Him. I need to be aware of the moments that are full of His grace as Mary was in this passage.
For me, these moments of Sabbath come when I take time to totally focus on playing with my kids, instead of just making sure they’re safe while I try to do chores. Being totally present with them as they explore the world, or as I hold them is a moment when I feel God’s presence in my life. I can also think of times I have been quiet in beautiful surroundings and have felt God’s presence in the natural beauty of the world. There are special moments when my husband and I are able to put aside the work and logistics of running a household and just enjoy feeling connected to each other that we experience God’s presence in our lives. It is a challenge to create moments to be quiet and open to God, but they are the moments that lift my spirit the most.
Prayer:
Lord, please remind me when I feel overwhelmed by the busy pace of my life that I am called by you to pause and connect with your spirit by quieting myself and letting things go undone for a time. Help me to remain mindful of how honoring the Sabbath in this way can recharge my batteries and help me continue in a more centered manner.
Lisa Michaels
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