"But only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:42).

As Jesus moved toward the end of His ministry, he spent time at the home of Lazarus in Bethany, right outside of Jerusalem. One day when Jesus was there, Lazarus’ sister Martha was busy preparing a meal for them, while her sister, Mary, "sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said" (Luke 10:39). Martha was upset about all the preparation that had to be done, and said to Jesus, "Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" (v. 40).

Jesus said, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed." We should note here, that the repetition of Martha’s name indicates intimacy and affection. Jesus gives her a slight rebuke, but it is couched in warmth and love.

Jesus tells Martha that at this crisis point in history, there is only one thing that is urgently needed. Remember that Jesus’ disciples were not allowed to go home to bury their dead or even to say good-bye, so urgent was the hour (Luke 9:57-62). Just so, at this juncture in history it was far more valuable to spend time with Jesus than to take care of all the domestic duties. Mary had a chance to hear words from Jesus, and that was more important on that day than anything else. Martha should have dropped everything, too, and spent time with the Lord.

We cannot afford to be casual about our relationship with Christ. We cannot afford to let the press of daily life keep us from the Word of God. There is a time to prepare a meal and to do the dishes, but not when Jesus is calling.

Jesus adds, "And it will not be taken away from her" (v. 42). What Mary heard would be hers forever. No one could take it from her. This is one of the great benefits of being attentive to the Word of God: It is yours forever.

Is the press of circumstances keeping you from focused time with the Word and with Jesus in prayer? Do you feel rushed, or have you deliberately inserted a time in your schedule when you can be a Mary instead of a Martha?

Sincerely in Christ,


Floyd McPhee