How quickly we forget the love Jesus has for us. Think back to times when you screwed up royally. Maybe a memory from a long time ago comes to mind. Maybe like me, you think of the several times a day you blow it especially towards your family. If you think back to those moments, I’m guessing in the middle of those times, the thought of being incredibly loved did not come to mind. How much of what we do is connected to striving to be loved, to be respected? Insecurity breeds all sorts of ways we try to secure ourselves. There is no end to the list of things we do to feel “okay enough.”
I believe this is why the story of Mary and Martha is in Scripture. Two sisters with two very different ways of approaching Jesus. And yet Jesus says one sister chose better. Why is Mary commended for spending time at Jesus’ feet? What if it all boils down to a lesson on worth? Our own as well as the One who gives it.
Time at Jesus’ feet reminds us we are not alone. So much of depression is simply feeling alone. When we choose to focus our minds on Jesus, even if we can’t feel it, we acknowledge His very real presence. We acknowledge what we can’t see is actually real.
Time at Jesus’ feet reminds us of who is in control. When we gaze upon the One who created everything, it prompts us to release all that we are attempting to shoulder. He is very ready and able to take what is burdening us. When we get out of the way, it gives room for God to show Himself at work. What sort of miracle did Martha miss out on because she tried to accomplish it all herself?
Time at Jesus’ feet reminds us of what is important. When we lose ourselves in the gaze of eternal things, suddenly having the cleanest house, being admired or being skinny enough pale in comparison to the Pearl of greatest price. Priorities are reset when we consider what we have been given in Jesus- the gift of our sins and guilt taken away. Freedom from bondage. I heard a quote that I think about often,
“Everyday, preach yourself the Gospel.” -author unknown
Remembering this then gives us purpose–to share with others the great relief and joy we get to experience.
Time at Jesus’ feet reminds us we are loved. We are forgetful creatures that need constant reminder of this truth. How many of us live in fear of what others think? Or fear of failure? Or of not measuring up? Those who struggle with depression are at the greatest risk of believing lies about their worth. Yet, in Jesus’ eyes we see reflected the measure of our worth.
Priceless.
When we begin to understand that we are wholly and infinitely loved for who we are, not for what we do, perfect love drives out fear. In Jesus alone we find perfect love. He tells us a different story than we tell ourselves.
Like a child with a favorite book, won’t you come and sit at His feet, so you can hear Him tell you once again?
Thank you, Marissa! This is beautiful, and a reminder I ALWAYS seem to need. I’m so proud of you, sweet friend!
I appreciate the reminder that when we are Jesus’ feet our priorities and perspective and what is important comes into focus. Thanks for the encouragement today Marissa!