Mary and Martha: Choosing What Matters Most in a Distracted World
Devotional week 19
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42 (NIV)
During our weekly Bible Study early this year, my 5-year-old daughter, Beulah, was asked to take the opening prayer. She obliged, and began, “Father, thank You for helping us to come to study. Please help Mummy not to fall asleep today, because she always sleeps during study ″. Everyone laughed, including me. But in many ways, I am like Martha. I love the Lord and open my home to people to come share in His word. But sometimes, I am overwhelmed by the many hours I put into making sure that people feel warm and comfortable enough to return for another study. But beyond the door to my home is the door to my heart which must be kept open for the Lord at all times.
Mary kept an open heart beyond comfort, and so it didn’t matter if ‘’at His feet’’ was the only space for her. It may not have been comfortable, but it was close enough for her to be right. Jesus confirmed this in verse 42 when He said Mary had chosen “what is better” A distraction is anything that diverts attention or shifts priorities. It could be a person, relationship, project, idea or an occurrence. People get distracted because they already have a focus.
Martha, and her sister, Mary already had their focus on Jesus. But Martha was distracted (vs 40). Her distraction wasn’t from the people pilling around her room just to see Jesus. Instead, it came from her inside − she was bothered about what she could do for the Lord than what He already done in her- which is a shift of priority. Like Martha, sometimes, we also want to be applauded for being distracted (vs 40). But the Word of God is sure to redirect our focus to what is needful.
The greatest work that could ever happen in our lives is the miracle that turns our hearts and focus to God and His Kingdom, and this, God already accomplished through Jesus on the cross. So, whatever we find to do as work for the Lord and His Kingdom should come from a place of rest and reliance upon His grace through the leading of His Word and Spirit.
Challenge
What specific thing is a distraction to you today? What steps can you take to redirect your focus?
Prayer
Father, please guide my heart to knowing the truth of working for You. Help me lean on your ever sufficient grace.
A Tent International Devotional — by Onemfien Emelis Rennar
