Day 16: Jesus with Mary and Martha
Choosing What is Better
Scripture Reading: Luke 10:38-42
"But the Lord said to her, 'My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.'" (Luke 10:41-42, NLT)
Reflection: Balancing Service and Devotion
The story of Mary and Martha highlights a tension many of us feel: the balance between serving and being present with Jesus. Martha, busy with preparations, grows frustrated when her sister Mary chooses to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to Him. Jesus’ gentle response to Martha reminds us that while service is important, devotion and time spent with Him must take precedence.
This passage challenges us to reflect on our priorities. Are we so busy with the demands of life, even good and necessary ones, that we neglect time with Jesus? Mary’s choice to sit at the feet of Christ shows us the importance of cultivating a heart of worship and intimacy with God.
Personal Reflection:
I’ve often found myself in Martha’s shoes, overwhelmed by tasks and responsibilities. This passage reminds me that my value doesn’t come from what I accomplish but from my relationship with Jesus. When I prioritize time with Him, everything else falls into perspective. It’s not always easy to slow down, but when I do, I find renewed peace and purpose.
Application: Prioritizing Time with Jesus
Like Mary and Martha, we are often pulled between action and contemplation. Here are practical steps to ensure we choose “what is better” in our daily lives:
Set Aside Quiet Time: Make time each day to sit at Jesus’ feet through prayer and Scripture reading. Protect this time from distractions.
Evaluate Your Priorities: Reflect on your schedule. Are there activities or commitments that take precedence over your relationship with God? Consider how you can rearrange your time to focus on Him.
Embrace Both Roles: While devotion is primary, service is also essential. Ask God to help you serve with a heart rooted in His love, not in stress or obligation.
Practice Presence: Whether in prayer, worship, or serving others, strive to be fully present. Avoid multitasking during your time with God or when engaging with loved ones.
Action Step:
Take 15 minutes today to sit in quiet prayer or read Scripture. Reflect on what God is teaching you and how you can prioritize your time with Him this week.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for reminding me of the importance of spending time with You. Help me to set aside the busyness of life and choose what is better. Teach me to balance service with devotion and to find joy in both. May my heart always be centered on You. Amen.