"Choosing the Better Portion" During This Special Time of Year (Martha and Mary)!

Good morning out there! This scripture came to my mind this past weekend.

Mary and Martha. On their journey Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him to her home. She had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord's feet and listened to his words. Martha, who was busy with all the details of hospitality, came to him and said, "Lord, are you not concerned that my sister has left me to do the household tasks all alone? Tell her to help me."       The Lord in reply said to her: "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and upset about many things; one thing only is required. Mary has chosen the better portion and she shall not be deprived of it."       Luke 10:38-42 (Saint Joseph Edition of the New American Bible)

This is the time of year when many of us feel like "Martha" - Let's be like Mary, also! I love having a full house. I have learned through the years to not stress so much about everything being perfect or whether our family traditions and meals look like the ones in the holiday magazines. This past Saturday night two of our children and their families were here. The total count including Jim and myself was fourteen! Our meal included; meat and or bean burritos, Queso, hot sauce and chips, jalapeno, bacon, and cream cheese wraps with or without dove - cooked on the pit. I had some pie crusts that needed to be used - melted butter, cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top and baked in the oven - a simple and yummy dessert! A pitcher of tea and a pitcher of lemonade, paper plates, plastic cups, and lots of napkins. I had a glass of wine!! A very loud and lively card game that involved spoons was played after dinner! I did not participate - I spent time with our younger grandchildren! 

Our son and his family spent the night. We had a full house – kids asleep on the couches, and one on a cot. Every bed was occupied as well! I need more pillows!  Jim got up early and fixed breakfast for everyone. I sat on the couch and colored pictures with two of my granddaughters. I added them to the pictures that had been colored the night before. As I’ve shared in previous posts – our seven year old granddaughter has leukemia –we were so thankful she felt well and enjoyed being with everyone. Sitting next to her and coloring pictures was definitely a “Mary” moment.  I didn’t worry about what needed to be done – I just gave thanks and “chose the better portion.”

I pray that your holidays; Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, etc. are filled with peace, joy, and love. 2020 has been a difficult year for everyone – I pray that you are with those you love. Keep things simple and enjoy each moment!  One more suggestion – I am blessed to have my mother’s china dishes. As our family grew I stopped using the china during holiday meals. We use heavy duty paper plates, but I do use the china serving dishes – they add that special touch for that special meal. My favorite time is when we stand in a big circle, hold hands and give thanks – Our God is an awesome God – rejoice and give thanks!

Peace and Blessings to you and yours! Bye for now, Sharla