Last week I had the privilege of preaching at Kerith. I talked about the daily choices we can make even (especially!) in busy times,so that we connect with God . Based on the Bible account of Jesus visiting the home of Martha and her sister Mary, I called these "Mary moments in Martha days" (thanks Bev for that great line!). God's made it so that we are all wired up differently and there are different situations and activities that make each one of us feel alive, close and connected to God. So we looked at 7 Spiritual Pathways and suggested activities and "ideal gifts" for each one.
Which one are you? The spiritual pathways are: Intellectual, Relational, Serving, Worship, Activist, Contemplative and Creation
I've had some great conversations with people since - it's been fascinating to hear what their spiritual pathway is, and how they best pursue it to connect with God. A lot of practical action seems to have resulted, including a son doing the washing up; and a husband buying and hanging Christmas lights. One friend said "I should be closest to God walking on a high mountain ridge with friends talking apologetics...( I also find worship, serving etc can bring you equally close, but require more initial effort)"
So...what's yours? And how are you going to pursue it today? Remember my main spiritual pathway is worship? Well I woke with "All I want for Christmas is you..." in my brain today (seriously - could Christmas "stuff" be crowding in just a little?!) However...within a few moments I was reflecting on the beautiful song that Amanda sang for us during the Carol Services on Sunday, and that did it for me. It's my hope, my prayer, my belief. For me, and for others today and as we each anticipate Christmas.
Luke 10 v 38-42
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Which one are you? The spiritual pathways are: Intellectual, Relational, Serving, Worship, Activist, Contemplative and Creation
I've had some great conversations with people since - it's been fascinating to hear what their spiritual pathway is, and how they best pursue it to connect with God. A lot of practical action seems to have resulted, including a son doing the washing up; and a husband buying and hanging Christmas lights. One friend said "I should be closest to God walking on a high mountain ridge with friends talking apologetics...( I also find worship, serving etc can bring you equally close, but require more initial effort)"
So...what's yours? And how are you going to pursue it today? Remember my main spiritual pathway is worship? Well I woke with "All I want for Christmas is you..." in my brain today (seriously - could Christmas "stuff" be crowding in just a little?!) However...within a few moments I was reflecting on the beautiful song that Amanda sang for us during the Carol Services on Sunday, and that did it for me. It's my hope, my prayer, my belief. For me, and for others today and as we each anticipate Christmas.
Breath of Heaven hold me together
be forever near me, Breath of Heaven
Breath of Heaven lighting my darkness
Pour over me Your holiness
Breath of Heaven
Luke 10 v 38-42
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”