Worries and Distractions

Text: Luke 10:41-42
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.’ (NRSV)

I’m sure you remember the story of Lazarus’ sisters Martha and Mary.  Jesus came to visit the household one day and was teaching.  In those days and in that culture, it was against the religious laws to teach a woman.  

So, Martha taking on the traditional role that was expected of her, was working hard preparing the food for the men who had no doubt gathered to hear Jesus’ teachings.  But Mary boldly sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to all that he was saying.  Of course, Martha was irritated that Mary was not taking on the traditional roles that were expected of women in the household and complained to Jesus about her sister not helping.  Today’s verse is the answer that Jesus gave.

What is it about your cultural traditions and your perceived roles in life that keep you from sitting at Jesus feet?  Do you believe that real men don’t attend Sunday morning services?  Do you think that Sunday School is only for children?  Do you think that the time that is needed to study your Bible will take you away from your focus on your studies or your career?  Do you think that social settings are not the proper place to discuss religion and so do not attend the church’s small groups?  Do you think that learning at the feet of Jesus is not as important than the other many things of life that worry and distract you, and so your calendar fills up and there is not time for Jesus?  

Pray with me:
God of love and God of wisdom forgive me when I allow the worries and distractions of the “many things” to squeeze out my time with you.  Remind me of the “better part” and the “one thing” that is truly needed: to be in your presence learning at your feet.  AMEN.