Mary & Martha

Last week I found myself pondering the story of Mary and Martha. I thought about how easy it is to be caught up in the cares of keeping a home, tending to responsibilities, and checking off the never ending to-do list. In our fast paced world, it can be hard to set aside time for what truly matters most.

As I taught the children this story, my eyes welled with tears while we read the gentle rebuke from the Savior. "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

Martha was trying to be a good host and serve the Lord to the best of her abilities. I can imagine her tidying up and preparing food for the Saviour. How often I feel like Martha, careful and troubled about many things. In all of the necessary, mundane daily work, I sometimes forget to stop and take time to sit at Jesus' feet as Mary did and to focus on those things that matter most.

As I fell asleep and contemplated the happenings of the day I realized that along with reading scriptures and praying, I worship at His feet when I take time to shepherd my children and turn their hearts to Him. I worship at His feet when I take time to listen and understand the needs of my family instead of focusing on the dinner dishes. I worship at his feet when I take time to read bedtime stories or snuggle a child to sleep instead of checking off my to-do list.

When I realize what really matters in life, I feel His presence more easily. My heart is filled with joy when I "choose that good part" and focus on the teachings of the Saviour. When I set time aside in my day to read His word and serve others, I can feel the power that has in my life, no matter what the day brings.