Day 293

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Disciples for God!

Scripture

October 19—Luke 10-12: Conduct of the Son of Man

Observation

As Jesus moves south into the region of Judea, he focuses on the training and commissioning of his disciples. In addition to the Twelve, he now equips and sends seventy others to minister in his name. When they return, Jesus initiates "postgraduate" program of discipleship covering such topics as prayer, hypocrisy, covetousness, anxiety, watchfulness, and his own approaching death. Along with the training of those sympathetic to the Savior, Luke also records the growing hatred of Jesus' enemies. When the Pharisees disapprove of Jesus' apparent disregard for their traditions, he responds with a series of woes against their hypocrisy. 

Application

Read 10:38-42 and then ask yourself: "Would an outside observer say my life more closely resembles that of Mary or Martha? Why?

It is natural to admire the person who does so much for God. After all, anyone who can teach  a children's class, sing in the choir, bake a pie for the church potluck, visit-shut-ins, and still maintain one's sanity must be doing something right. Right?

A casual reading of the story of Mary and Martha may give you the impression Mary was lazy and unconcerned, while Martha was industrious and faithful. But don't miss Jesus' evaluation of the situation! It was Mary, not Martha, whom Jesus praised. Being with Jesus was more important than being "so upset over all these details" (10:41).

Are you letting some good things crowd out more important things? Do you let a TV program crowd out a better book, or even the Good Book? Do you allow a clean house to keep you from pursuing a clean heart before God? Decide to do an important task today, even if some good ones have to be postponed. Take it from Mary, you won't really miss a thing!

Prayer

Father God, hear our prayers as they go up to you when we meet together to glorify your Holy name. We want our house to be your house—a house of God. A house of prayer is what our heart do everyday and all throughout the day. We keep our mind stayed on you in prayers and praises. Help us to encourage believers and unbelievers alike that praying is the most profound way to communicate with you about every facets of our lives. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen! 

A House of Prayer!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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