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For a brief time, my husband David required home-health services.

During most visits, I remained close to be available for questions or instructions. While visits were cordial, I was anxious to resume my busy schedule.

One day, another lady replaced his usual nurse. David never missed an opportunity to learn whether or not our first-time visitors had a relationship with Jesus. The substitute’s drawn face, leathery skin, and sallow appearance—plus her somewhat awkward demeanor—exhibited signs of a difficult life. When David asked his usual question about Jesus, she shared a moving testimony about God’s faithfulness in her life.

The following visit, David’s regular nurse informed us that her substitute had been killed in an automobile accident. The news impacted me more than I would have ever expected. Although doubtful we would have seen her again on this earth, something about the finality of her life struck me. Her affirmation of God’s deliverance through the storms she had weathered was more important than whatever work responsibilities captivated my attention.

Opportunities to share or hear others talk about Jesus’ love are often fleeting, and I quickly move on with the many tasks I think are important.

Jesus talked about misplaced priorities when He visited with His friends, Mary and Martha. Martha, occupied with many important chores to her, complained about Mary’s lack of help. Martha failed to understand that those activities didn’t compare with spending time with Jesus. He reminded her, “There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”

God used the untimely death of a stranger to remind me how numerous people cross my path almost daily—many of whom I’ll never see again on earth. God instilled in me the importance of listening to and sharing about the sacrifice for our sins at every opportunity. My lifetime is uncertain, but as Jesus shared with Martha, my priority must be to put Him first in my words and in my actions.

Where are your priorities?

(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)

(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)