Today’s Bible Verse
But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10: 41-42 (TNRSV)
One Thing
The holiday season is upon us! Even as I type, I’m feeling it. I must fight to stay focused on that “one thing.” It reminds me of the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42 (TNRSV).
As the sisters, Mary and Martha, were expecting Jesus’s visit, we can imagine that they both did all they could to make their home appealing, tidy, and comfortable for the Master’s coming. Yet, in verses 39 and 40, we can see a difference in the hearts of these two sisters.
Once Jesus entered the home, Mary stopped what she was doing and sat at Jesus’ feet. Martha, on the other hand, continued with her preparations. Not only that, but in her self-righteousness, Martha tells Jesus, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do the serving by myself? Then tell her to help me.”
Wow! Martha was upset. However, let’s give Martha the benefit of the doubt that her intentions were honorable. That she only wanted to create the very best experience for Jesus and all the guests who were present.
In times past, I’ve noticed that comments are made that we need to stop being like Martha. Yet, Martha’s preparations were vital in welcoming Jesus. Her motive and efforts were to prepare for an excellent experience. Wouldn’t you agree that isn’t bad?
In actuality, in this season, someone will need to labor and obtain the finances so that we may experience this holiday season. Someone will need to prepare gifts and meals. Also, clean, decorate, and organize the home for the family and guests. Most importantly, someone needs to invite family, friends, and “neighbors” to church since this is the season when most people are very open to attending.
Thus, both Mary’s and Martha’s preparations were vital to please God. It’s just that Martha ended up becoming fleshy. She became out of balance because her priorities were misaligned. We need to be especially careful this season and not allow ourselves to become distracted, allowing our hearts to deviate from the “one thing”—honoring God. (Pastor Darlene Tsuha)
Change My Story
As a disciple of Christ, wearing many hats (probably similar to many of you), I have much to be grateful for, as well as a great responsibility from the Lord. Because I know this, I need to be mindful to go after the “one thing.” I do this by getting up a little earlier in the morning than my flesh would like to, intending to ultimately win souls (and make disciples) throughout the day.
Indeed, without a doubt, we need that uninterrupted time with God as well. That is the best. However, for me, sitting at the feet of the Lord is often more of a heart posture than a physical one. I sit with the Lord just about everywhere and at any time because I know that Jesus is ever available to chat with me since He never sleeps or slumbers. He also enjoys when I diligently seek Him.
Before I read my Bible (truly so it can read me) and the life-giving daily devotional on the Word of Life app, I like to refer to our Word of Life Christian Center’s (past) church services on YouTube where I can tune into a time of praise and worship. To me, this is vital because the Word says that God inhabits the praises of His people. Oh, how I need His presence.
As I pursue the Lord, in prayer (and praying much in the Holy Spirit), I ask Him for wisdom and guidance on how to go about my day. Since our God is such a great provider, I expect and He always downloads direction and ideas. I always write down what He shares with me; then, I try my best to do all that can with His spirit working through me.
At times, I think I feel like Martha, a bit anxious over my to-do list. Especially when it seems that far too many situations or people are bombarding me at the same time. I’ve learned to quickly discipline myself to not let those setbacks sap my energy. I instead focus my energy on the delegated opportunities and intentions at hand.
At the end of the day, I like to sit at the feet of Jesus (like Mary), to thank Him for all He provided, repent and just hang out because He seems to speak (or I can better hear Him) when I am still.
In this holiday season, let’s choose to be partakers in the best of both Martha’s and Mary’s worlds. Let’s stay focused on the “one thing” in all we are doing. Remember that some of our gifts may be packaged with a bow, others may not, like His sweet peace. Let’s keep the MARY in our CHRISTmas!
Today’s Declaration
Dear Heavenly Father, let those words spoken by Jesus resound in my heart that there is just this “one thing” that is needed. Help me to identify the other things that are holding me back from the one thing.
Help me to not get carried away with perfection, but be excellent in all that I get to do. I choose to rest in You knowing that all I need to do is my very best, and Your grace will cover the rest.
I overcome distractions, stress, worry, and cares that try to consume my energy. I cast down every anti-Christ voice arguing with what you are instructing me to do, by the power of the Blood of Jesus.
I renounce idolatry, intimidation, pride, and depression; especially the fear to have to please people, rather than You. I command this and any tormenting spirits to go from me and my family now in the name of Jesus.
By your grace, I can do the “one thing,” the better part, and it will not be taken away from me. I will sit at your feet and listen to You, dear Holy Spirit. I declare the joy of the Lord will continue to be my strength today and throughout this HOLY-day season.
That CHRIST will not be taken out of this Christmas in Jesus’ name. I shall go and tell it on the mountain and everywhere that Jesus Christ is born! Amen & Amen!
