Give it to Christ
Today's Scripture
Today's Insights
Luke 10:38-42 reveals a profound encounter between Jesus and the sisters Mary and Martha. But this isn't their only significant interaction in Scripture. In John 11, we find Jesus returning to Bethany—not for a meal, but because Lazarus was gravely ill, and his sisters had sent word to Jesus.
The contexts differ dramatically: In Luke, the setting is a home where Martha busies herself with hospitality (10:40); in John, the atmosphere is heavy with grief and loss (11:3, 17). Yet certain patterns emerge in both narratives. Martha, who was "distracted with serving" in Luke 10:38-40, appears "distressed with grief" in John 11:20-22. In both instances, Jesus lovingly redirects her perspective (Luke 10:41-42; John 11:23-26).
Mary's posture remains consistent. In Luke 10, she sits at Jesus' feet, absorbing His words. In John 11, we find her again at His feet, though now overwhelmed by sorrow. In this moment of profound grief, Jesus offers the ultimate comfort: "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die and whoever lives by believing in me will never die" (25-26).
Today's Devotional
A young woman once reflected on a study linking teenage depression to sleep deprivation: "I never seem to know when to stop—I push myself so hard that I end up making myself sick from lack of sleep and stress." Her question resonated with many of us: "What does it really mean to manage time in a way that honors God? What's the difference between busyness and fruitfulness?"
Busyness rarely guarantees productivity, faithfulness, or fruitfulness—yet how often do we equate constant activity with spiritual significance? In Luke 10:41, Jesus gently reminded Martha that she was "worried and upset about many things," while affirming that Mary's choice to sit "at the Lord's feet" embodying the posture of a disciple—was "the better part."
Do we sometimes serve Christ frenetically, secretly believing He'll value us more if we accomplish more? Colossians 3:17 instructs us, "Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus." However, this verse doesn't call us to exhaustion in His name. Instead, Psalm 46:10 whispers a counter-cultural invitation: "Be still, and know that I am God."
True rest isn't found in completing our spiritual to-do lists but in the presence of Jesus Himself. When we pause to abide with Him, we discover what He promised in Matthew 11:29—genuine "rest for your souls." It's from this place of sacred rest that authentic fruitfulness flows.
Reflect & Pray
When have you mistaken busyness for faithfulness? How might intentional time with Jesus transform your understanding of productivity and rest?
Dear Lord, teach me the difference between relentless activity and faithful presence. Help me trade my exhausting busyness for the stillness where I truly encounter You. May my life bear fruit not from frantic effort but from resting deeply in Your presence. Amen.