When my parents first received my mom’s cancer diagnosis, my dad shared with us all that they were focusing on the passage in Hebrews 12:2-3 “Keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, so that you won’t grow weary and lose heart.” In the weeks that have followed Eyes on Jesus has become our families’ battle cry, and often in our communications (updates on Mom, etc), you will see EOJ at the end- a reminder for us all whatever we may face. And so for many weeks, I have been reminded to keep my eyes on Jesus.
Then this past Sunday, our associate minister spoke on the difference between
doing for God and being with God. He looked at the passage about Mary and
Martha and noted that though Martha’s actions were good- after all she was
fulfilling a command for hospitality- Mary’s choice was better. Mary chose to
sit and listen at the feet of Jesus, and I knew that was precisely where I wanted
and needed to be. This message built upon the reminder to keep my Eyes on Jesus
and called me to even more. So I have decided to embark on a journey this
Christmas season to do just that- to dwell at the feet of Jesus.
Dwell- it’s such a beautiful, rich word. It suggests settling
down, residing permanently, and that is exactly what I wish- not just to visit
briefly with Jesus, but to make my home at His feet. I cannot think of a better
way to approach this then to spend the days leading up to Christmas focusing on
who He is- what was prophesied about Him, how He identified Himself and who the
apostles and disciples worshiped and praised in the New Testament letters.
I share to help keep me accountable in the days ahead but I also invite you all to join me if you wish. Sit at the feet of
Jesus and take in all that He is and find your home with Him this holiday
season.
