Friday, October 3, 2008

Mara

Mara is the name Naomi (in the book of Ruth in the Bible) named herself after the loss of her husband and sons. It means bitter.

I have a blackness in my heart called bitterness. I don't know how it got there and it is a constant daily battle to get rid of it. The Bible calls us to serve one another and to put each other first. This can be a very difficult thing to do, especially when you put others first who do not reciprocate. But the purpose of serving others is not to be served. Nonetheless, I have found that the more I give and serve those who are oblivious, the more bitter I become. I DO NOT WANT TO BE BITTER! Bitterness can wreck your day and wreck your relationships. It is funny how even small things like always taking the broken mug so the other person doesn't burn their hands can turn from an act of love to an act that causes evil thoughts towards the other person. Please pray for me that I would be able to love sincerely and not allow any bitterness in my heart.

1 comment:

tiffanystpierre said...

Dearest Beca,

I am thinking and praying for you right now that God will just take that bitterness away from you and help you to serve more like Jesus who washed the disciples dirty, dirty feet. I pray that you'll be able to find a renewed joy in what you're doing, and that little things God does will remind you of His love and joy that HE sees when you're serving people. Maybe it'll mean finding a flower in a dingy corner, or having a random stranger encourage you! Perhaps it'll just be catching a beautiful sunset and remember He's made this for you. Whatever it is, I'm thinking and praying for you. You ARE serving. You're serving miles and miles from home. Don't give up... it's just the weight of the world.. when your heart's heavy.. I.. I will lead to guide you (think Josh Groban singing...)

LOVE
Tiff