Luke 10:38-42 | Psalm 40:1-8
It’s quite possible that one could dwell on this short passage for days while still yet drawing from its wisdom. Indeed, the distinction Jesus makes here likely is one of those daily grace-upon-grace educations across a lifetime.
There are needs in life and then there are needs. Food is a need. Shelter is a need. Warm and security - both needs.
It’s not that Jesus disparages food, hospitality, or shelter here. In fact, he spends much of his time on earth preparing such things even himself.
But Jesus says, “One thing is necessary.”1
…and then doesn’t name it.
So carefully read this story and search for it.
Luke 10:38-42
While Jesus and his disciples were traveling, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him as a guest. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his message. By contrast, Martha was preoccupied with getting everything ready for their meal. So Martha came to him and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to prepare the table all by myself? Tell her to help me.”
The Lord answered, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things. One thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the better part. It won’t be taken away from her.”
Psalm 40:1-8
I put all my hope in the Lord.
He leaned down to me;
he listened to my cry for help.
He lifted me out of the pit of death,
out of the mud and filth,
and set my feet on solid rock.
He steadied my legs.
He put a new song in my mouth,
a song of praise for our God.
Many people will learn of this and be amazed;
they will trust the Lord.
Those who put their trust in the Lord,
who pay no attention to the proud
or to those who follow lies,
are truly happy!
You, Lord my God!
You’ve done so many things—
your wonderful deeds and your plans for us—
no one can compare with you!
If I were to proclaim and talk about all of them,
they would be too numerous to count!
You don’t relish sacrifices or offerings;
you don’t require entirely burned offerings or compensation offerings—
but you have given me ears!
So I said, “Here I come!
I’m inscribed in the written scroll.
I want to do your will, my God.
Your Instruction is deep within me.”
Prayer
God,
Frankly, my day is pretty full. I spent my early days searching for hats and roles and then when found, I find I can’t wear them all at the same time very well. I was told to fill my docket with responsibility, but missed the lessons about responsibilities that arise naturally in life without much effort.
I’ve people to take care of (including myself!).
I’ve bills and money to handle (all while pressured for more!)
I’ve a home to maintain (and vehicles, lawns, etc.).
I’ve a job or two.
You’ve asked me to help others, notice neighbors, and practice hospitality.
And yet I have this deep sense that none of this matters without inner understanding of your truth and love.
So help me today, God, amidst the activity, to know your peace. Help me to breath. To enjoy the food in front of me. To see you in the people I encounter. And bring me to the place where I will lay down at the end of this day knowing all is well, despite the circumstances.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.
Amen. Breathe. Amen.