April 4

One Thing Is Necessary

Today’s Scripture Readings: Psalms 48:1-8 | Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26 | Luke 10:38-11:13 | Proverbs 12:15-17

Today’s Scripture Focus: Luke 10:38-11:13

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42 NIV).

Martha knows that things need to get done. When you have guests, there are numerous details that have to be attended to.  All that is true. Life is filled with details and things that need to be done, things that require our attention.

Mary knows that when you have guests, they are there to enjoy your company. Details shouldn’t get in the way of enjoying time with those you love.

Martha consumed by practical details and worried about getting everything done right, sees Mary shirking her duties and she’s upset. She’s not helping in the kitchen. She is sitting at Jesus’ feet—enjoying fellowship.

Jesus reminds Martha: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed-or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken from her.”

It is good to follow through with the details of our life—to be responsible in the details of life. Yet often we crowd our lives with unnecessary things—our lives become too complicated. We miss out on the joy of what is most important.

Only one thing is necessary, according to Jesus. What is that one thing? It is time spent in the presence of Jesus.  It is enjoying fellowship with him through time in his word and in prayer. There is plenty of time for the other stuff—first things first.

Abba Father, I open up my heart to you today to spend time in fellowship. Thank you for the joy of your presence, the peace, the love, the hope that abounds as I spend time with you. As I move on into the details of the day, may I never walk away from your presence. Help me to focus my attention upon you throughout the day that our fellowship will continue. Amen.