Serving Your Family with Love: Lessons from Jesus
As moms, our days are filled with acts of service, whether it’s making sure everyone has breakfast, folding yet another load of laundry, or staying up late to listen when our kids need to talk. We give so much of ourselves, often without a second thought. But let’s be honest, sometimes it feels like we’re on autopilot, moving from one task to the next, trying to hold everything together. I get it. There are days when I feel worn out, unseen, and maybe a little frustrated. And yet, when I pause and look at the life of Jesus, I’m reminded of the beauty and purpose in serving my family with love.
The story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42 always touches my heart. It’s a story I think most of us can relate to. Martha was running around, preparing everything, trying to make sure her home was just right for Jesus. Meanwhile, her sister Mary chose to sit at His feet and simply listen. Naturally, Martha felt overwhelmed, and frustrated! I can practically hear her voice when she asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But instead of doing that, Jesus gently reminded Martha of something so important: “Martha, Martha, 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.”
When I read this, I see so much of myself in Martha. I’m sure you’ve had days like that too, trying to keep up with everything, balancing all the to-dos and feeling overwhelmed by it all. But what Jesus said to Martha was a loving reminder that sometimes we need to slow down and focus on what truly matters. It's not about how much we can get done or how perfect everything looks, but about the love we pour into what we do.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that being a good wife or mother means doing everything perfectly. We tell ourselves, “If the house isn’t spotless, or if dinner isn’t just right, I’m failing.” But Jesus shows us that our worth isn’t in how perfectly we serve, but in the love and heart behind our service. It’s the little things, like tucking your kids into bed with a hug or simply being present when your spouse needs to talk, that show love in the most meaningful ways.
This story of Martha and Mary reminds us that while there are always things to get done, our family doesn’t need us to be perfect. They need us to be present. They need us to love them through the moments, even the messy ones. And trust me, I know how hard that can be on some days. The never-ending tasks, the exhaustion, and sometimes the frustration of feeling like you’re doing it all on your own. I’ve been there. But on those days, I remind myself of Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Jesus wasn’t upset with Martha for serving. He knew that the work she was doing mattered. But He wanted to show her (and all of us) that it’s okay to slow down and sit at His feet, to rest in His presence, and to pour out love instead of letting the weight of tasks overwhelm us.
As mothers, there are always going to be things we need to do. But it’s important to find that balance between serving our families and also taking time to connect with them. Sometimes that means letting the laundry wait for a little bit while you sit with your kids and listen to their stories. Sometimes it means taking a deep breath and giving yourself grace when things don’t go as planned.
How We Can Serve Like Jesus:
Serve with Love: When we approach each task, even the smallest ones, with love, it changes how we see them. Whether it’s making lunches or tidying up the house, remember that these small acts are ways to show your family how much you care.
Pray for Strength: Jesus often took time to pray and seek strength from His Father. We need that too! It’s okay to ask God for patience, energy, and peace to help you serve with a loving heart.
Embrace Rest: Just like Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, we need moments of rest. Allow yourself time to recharge, spiritually and emotionally. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
Involve Your Family: You don’t have to do everything alone. Let your family be a part of the service, whether it’s simple chores or praying together. You’re teaching them how to love and serve others through your example.
Martha and Mary remind us that serving with love is what truly matters. Our homes won’t always be perfect, and some days will be harder than others, but when we serve with Jesus at the center, we find joy in the everyday moments. He’s with us, giving us the strength to love and serve our families, even on the tough days.
So, next time you feel overwhelmed, remember this: You’re doing beautiful, sacred work in your home. Every meal, every hug, every prayer you say for your children, it all matters. And Jesus is right there beside you, guiding you and giving you grace for every step of the journey.
Father, thank You for the gift of my family and the opportunity to serve them each day. On the days when I feel weary or unseen, remind me that my service is seen by You and that every small act of love makes a difference. Help me to serve with a joyful heart and to follow Jesus' example of love and patience. Teach me to find balance between doing and being present, and to always remember that my worth comes from You, not from how perfectly I perform. Give me grace for the moments when I fall short, and guide me in showing Your love in everything I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
