Mary, Martha & Me

Distractions come in all forms. I don’t know about you, but it seems like the second I sit down to spend time with the Lord, I suddenly remember all of the things that need to get done. As women, we always seem to have a list that is a mile long. Whether it’s folding laundry, car-pooling kiddos, or finishing school work, there is always something that needs to be accomplished. If we aren’t careful, those things can become misplaced.

I have seen it in my own life. I set aside time to dig into God’s Word but then remember something that needs to be done. I jump up to accomplish the task with every intention of coming back to spend time with Jesus, but end up getting distracted along the way. Of course, one task leads to another and several hours pass. As my head hits the pillow at night, I realize I have accomplished many things on my list, but I have neglected that which is most important. I have been fed physically but neglected to be fed spiritually.

We see a perfect example of this in Scripture. It’s the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10. Jesus had come for dinner and there was much to be done. Martha was distracted with all the preparations while Mary simply sat at Jesus’ feet. Martha was frustrated and told Jesus to send Mary to help. And this is His response: “But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”” Luke‬ ‭10:41-42‬

Jesus said Mary chose the good portion! She chose to sit at His feet despite all the things that needed to be done. What a perfect reminder for us! The to-do list will always be there. The distractions will come in many forms. But we will never regret pressing pause on those things and choosing to sit at Jesus’ feet first. Let’s allow Him to fill us up so we can better tackle the tasks that lie ahead.

The list isn’t going anywhere. Let Jesus be what you choose today.