Luke 10:38-42 (NRSV)
Read Luke 10:38-42 on biblegateway.com
Verse 38Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Verse 39She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. Verse 40But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." Verse 41But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; Verse 42there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."
Devotion
I know this gospel reading is not inviting us to pick on Martha. After all, Martha's important work meant that Jesus didn't have to worry about putting out the meal for all the guests that were coming. But still this scripture leaves me thinking I need to be more like Mary.
Although life is busy enough most days, the truth is I am also good at creating busy work. And sometimes I know that it is fear that keeps me from fully listening to Jesus. I have not been engaged in listening to Jesus because I am afraid of what Jesus might call me to do. I am afraid that I will be challenged to use the gifts God has given me that I have not yet fully developed. I am afraid that I will be asked to do hard work that leads me to make tough decisions about how I will use my time. I am afraid that listening to Jesus will challenge me to live differently in the future.
Prayer
God of Grace, forgive us our doubts; give us courage to listen and a willingness to be still today for the sake of the ministry of tomorrow. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.