121 AdventSample

Busyness: A Hindrance To Peace

Many years ago, two sisters had an opportunity that so many of us would dream to have. They had Jesus in their home as their guest. How many of us would love to have Jesus spend time with us in our home? Seriously. Jesus!

But here they were, Mary and Martha, hosting Jesus Christ in their home. Martha, as I imagine so many of us would, wanted to have everything perfect for Jesus. She swept, she straightened, she got drinks, she refilled drinks, she cleaned, she prepared her home perfectly for Jesus. Mary on the other hand did none of that. Mary simply sat at Jesus’ feet, watching, listening, soaking it all in.

Martha, in a frenzied mess, takes ten seconds to call out her lazy sister and ask Jesus if He would intervene. Jesus’ response tells so much. “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)

In the midst of her busyness, Martha was worked up a restless frenzy, and missed Jesus. Her busyness, while she thought was good hosting, was only a hindrance to experiencing the Prince of Peace. Busyness often times masquerades as productive, even spiritual. But all too often, busyness keeps us from what matters most, sitting at the feet of the Savior and enjoying His peace!

Families With Young Children

Read Luke 10:38-42. KIDS, Why did Martha get upset with her sister, Mary? (Martha was trying so hard to make things perfect for Jesus and her sister was busy chatting with Jesus instead of helping her) Have you ever felt like someone was not doing their share? Maybe a brother or sister not doing chores or a teammate not pulling their weight? How did that make you feel? Do you ever feel like you are too busy to spend time with Jesus in prayer or reading your Bible? What can you think about doing to help discipline yourself in this area? Jesus desires a friendship with you and in order to be a good friend you need to spend time with Him.

Christmas is only twelve days away… Wow! What are some things you can begin doing to prepare yourself for the BIG day? How will you celebrate Jesus’ birthday? What are some things you can do around your house to help your parents not be so busy getting ready for Christmas?

Suggested Activity: Think of friends or neighbors you can invite to a Birthday Party for Jesus! Maybe have the party at the beginning of Christmas break. Provide snacks, play games, play Christmas songs or sing the songs and guess the titles, tell or act out the story of Christ’s birth and let all your friends know why Christmas is such a BIG day!

Pray that God will help you to be disciplined in spending time with Him in prayer and reading His Word. Thank Him for loving you and for sending His Son to be your best friend.