The story of Jesus’ friends, Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42), offers us an on-time word today. We often think of the slow pace of years gone by, but y’all this story fits our lives like a glove. Jesus’ friend struggled with anxiety too.
But Martha was distracted with much serving. (vs 40)
Do we fuss over the details too much? Do we live a distracted life?
How would you rewrite that verse to fit your life? But __________ is distracted with __________
Jesus gently counsels Martha, the other dinner guests, and those of us reading His words today:
41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
The New Living Translation reads, “But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! 42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”
What is the one thing, Lord?
Matthew 6:33-34 answers that question for us,
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.”
I’m personalizing these verses for myself. I encourage you to do the same:
My dear Carmen, you are worried and upset over all these details. There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Seek Me, above all else, live righteously, and I will give you everything you need.
Lord, thank you for this right-now word. Help us to limit the distractions of our fast-paced life and choose the good portion — the one thing worth being concerned about — strengthening our relationship with You. We ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Oh Carmen, How right you are. I spend way too much time cleaning the hardwood floors of dog hair and making sure the counters are cleaned off after our meals. Oh and then there is the laundry….
what if in the midst of all that I take a break and sit with Jesus reading scripture. I can feel the calmness coming and the anxiety leaving. My bible is open and my coffee is hot. Here I come Jesus……
Oh, Nancy, I love your gift of expression. I pray that you continue to have those breaks in the busy to spend time with Jesus, and of course, a cup of hot coffee!