The Better Part

As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem they came to a village where a woman named Martha welcomed them into her home. Her sister Mary sat on the floor, listening to Jesus as he talked.

But Martha was the jittery type, and was worrying over the big dinner she was preparing.

She came to Jesus and said, "Sir, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me."

But the Lord said to her, "Martha, dear friend, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it - and I won't take it away from her!" Luke 10: 38-42 (TLB)

After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in December 2016, Patsy D. Fields, from South Carolina, was unable to carry out her usual physical activities on many days. She has neuropathy from the ribs down, debilitating fatigue, muscle spasms, and pain. For a while she felt useless and lonely. She wondered if her best days were behind her.

Then Patsy read the story of Mary and Martha. Martha was frustrated that Mary wasn't helping her with the preparations for hosting Jesus and his disciples in their home. Jesus calmed Martha, saying Mary was exactly where she needed to be - with him. That scripture helped Patsy to see that even in times of incapacity, she could still be useful - even productive. Patsy began to relinquish control and began sitting at the feet of Jesus, loving him and feeling loved by him. While she was incapacitated, God helped her to grow in her faith by leading her to read her Bible and to engage in other devotional activities.

In the years since her diagnosis, Patsy has found a way to continue working full-time at the local community college. She is also able to foster dogs and volunteer with several local fundraising events. Patsy is comforted to know that Jesus is always with her and can use her at all times to serve him, no matter her physical capabilities.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, comfort us with your love when we feel useless or alone. Thank you for walking beside us. We pray in Your precious name. Amen.