Daily EncouragementNäide

If we are honest, we have to admit the temptation to be a bit “put off” by this word of the Lord. It was a word to Martha, and most of us are like her - easily distracted by many things and neglecting the “one thing needed.” That one thing is devotion to the Lord himself, expressed by our taking the time to sit at his feet and listen to him.

We need to recognize that both sisters were devoted to the Lord. Martha, after all, had “opened her home to him” and the very “preparations” which distracted her were preparations for him. Again, both must have taken their share of household duties - before Mary left Martha to work alone, she must have been doing something! Temperament was a factor in this incident too; Martha was more at home in the kitchen. And temperament is sanctified rather than changed.

Distraction by “many things” must not crowd out the “one thing.” The essence of the “one thing” is not our doing, but our receiving from him. We will have to make time to receive, because Martha will still have to serve. There will still be dishes to wash, but we shall be relaxed and we shall not resent Mary and her perfume (John 12:1-3). Rather, we shall join her in her worship.