Are you Distracted?
“As they went on their way, he entered into a certain village, and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. She had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she came up to him, and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister left me to serve alone? Ask her therefore to help me.” Jesus answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the good part, which will not be taken away from her.”” (Luke 10:38-42 WEB)
Martha “was distracted”. The original Greek word is periespato which means “to be dragged all around”.
Sometimes we feel that way don’t we? Being distracted by this and that, things clamoring for our attention, and especially something addictive like social media?
We learn that even the intention of serving the Lord can become a distraction if it comes from a wrong belief.
“I need to do this because it is what God expects from me. I need to do my best to serve the King!”
If you try to serve with an empty tank, you will be stressed and angry like Martha was.
She was sincere in her intentions, but it was the wrong time to be worried about serving Jesus.
All Jesus wanted was for Martha to sit at His feet like Mary did, and receive His words.
I’m sure Mary had her fair share of chores too, but she prioritized what was truly important, and she correctly discerned Jesus’ heart.
He did not come to be served, but to serve.
When Jesus comes to your home, you sit and listen, savoring every word like a sumptuous feast. No time must be wasted on “much serving”. He does not need that. He needs you to hear His word and be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Perhaps when praying, it is better to ask “What do you want to tell me now, Lord,” instead of “What do you want me to do now, Lord?” Receiving His word is number one priority, and we will be empowered to serve Him in the fullness of that grace contained in His spoken word!
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