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Sharing the Savior’s Story

Martha Hands

In the 1800s, it was not unusual for a household servant to work six days a week, and 12 to 15 hours a day. Such was the life of a 19-year-old servant girl who lived in London. Here is what she wrote: "Lord of all pots and pans and things - since I've no time to be a saint by doing lovely deeds or watching late with Thee, or dreaming in the dawn’s light or storming Heaven's gates, make me a saint by getting meals and washing up the plates! Although I may have Martha hands, I have a Mary mind; so when I black the boots and shoes, Thy sandals, Lord, I find! I think of how they trod the earth each 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 all 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."