Listen to this devotion
A Modern-Day Martha
In the Word
Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality (Romans 12:13).
Of the Word
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him (Luke 10:38).
The concept of hospitality was practiced within Martha’s Jewish community. My husband’s African-American parents were an example of this characteristic, too. They offered their modest home as a stop on the “over-ground railroad.” Dozens of southern friends and relatives stayed for periods of time lasting anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of years as they sought opportunities in the North.
My mother-in-law was often viewed as a Martha in terms of her priorities. Her hospitality was evidence of her strong faith and appreciation of God’s many gifts.
If you are a modern-day Martha, take heart. Continue to offer hospitality as she did. That can be your expression of faith in Christ and thanksgiving to God.
Walking with my Lord
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to do everything out of thanks to You for all that You have done for me. In the true spirit of hospitality, grant that I may share with others the gifts You have given me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Living as a Woman in Mission. Author: Dr. LuJuana R. Butts. 29/32 ©2009 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
