Daily devotional · August 21
The One Needed Thing
“As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to His message. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations to be made. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord replied, “you are worried and upset about many things. But only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her.””
Martha welcomes Jesus into her home and throws herself into hospitality, while her sister Mary sits at his feet to listen. Martha, overwhelmed, asks Jesus to tell Mary to help. His reply is tender: Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things, but one thing is needed. He does not scold her service; he names the anxiety underneath it. Serving can turn into a way of proving ourselves, and being busy can crowd out the very Person we wish to honor. Read Luke 10:41 and notice the repeated name, spoken with affection rather than rebuke. Both women love him, and both are welcome. Yet Mary chose listening first. Today, protect ten minutes before the day's tasks begin, or a short pause in the middle of it. Sit, put the phone away, and simply listen for what Jesus might say to you.
Also read
““Martha, Martha,” the Lord replied, “you are worried and upset about many things.”
Luke 10:41
Prayer
Lord, quiet my busy heart. Teach me to sit at your feet and to serve from a place of rest.