Having a Mary Heart and a Martha Mind
Lord of all pots and pans and things, since I’ve no time to be A saint by doing lovely things, or watching late with Thee,
Or dreaming in the dawn-light, or storming Heaven’s gates,
Make me a saint by getting meals and washing up the plates.
Although I must have Martha’s hands,
I have a Mary mind,
And when I black the boots and shoes,
Thy sandals, Lord, I find.
I think of how they trod the earth, what time I scrub the floor:
Accept this meditation, Lord, I haven’t time for more.
Warm all the kitchen with Thy love, and light it with Thy peace;
Forgive me all my worrying, and make my grumbling cease.
Thou who didst love to give men food, in room or by the sea,
Accept this service that I do -— I do it unto Thee.—
Cecily Rosemary Hallack (1898-1938)
Funny, I was thinking of this story before I came online! There is so much to learn here. That's beautiful.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite line "Forgive me all my worrying, and make my grumbling cease. "
ReplyDeleteThis is my prayer:)
I love this bible illustration and I love your poetry. May God continue to bless your talent
Love this, Suzy!
ReplyDeletebtw: If you don't mind copy/pasting, there's a poem I think you'll like here:http://peacebestill.typepad.com/everything_you_never_care/2007/10/assignment-8--u.html?cid=87235364#comment-87235364
What a great prayer!
ReplyDeleteI think the whole story of Martha and Mary is to teach us to make our work whether it be scrubbing the floors or washing the dishes a prayer.
ReplyDeleteYou dont have to be kneeling 24/7 in order to pray. That is especially impossible for busy Mums and Dad's.
What an excellent piece Thankyou Suzy:)
Peace to you:)
Marie
This speaks to so many of us, Suzy. And as the previous commentator says we can make our work a prayer.
ReplyDelete