Only One Thing?

S - "As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “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 10:38-43 NIV)

O - Is there really only one thing which is needed for us earthlings? What would happen if the whole world chose to live like Mary? How would anything ever get done? The world (secular and religious) believes that this story points out an impractical side of Jesus' interaction and cautions all to not take his words, in this case, too seriously. The record of how Jesus lived and his interaction with practical human need "call out" this cultural lie and point of fear and intimidation. Culture says such a response will leave the world lacking and its adherents lazy and ultimately impoverished. It sides with Martha unequivocally. Fortunately, Heaven isn't intimidated and knows different. One thing really is needed and all who choose to actually believe Jesus about earth (John 3:11-12)  find that he does not impoverish but enriches; is directly connected with heaven and earth and makes the same connection for all who will so choose. Something greater than the Temple, than Solomon, than Jonah, than the Sabbath is here. The will of God REQUIRES God day by day … This is how Jesus and his first followers lived. It is how he wishes all who call on his name to live too. All won't but all could.

A - In this life I am now living this exchange struck me deeply as I keep following day by day. I am attempting to daily choose what is needed - more than a set time for reading and praying - an ongoing embrace of Jesus' words about earth … which require ongoing intervention from him (miracles) of the most practical order … and "orders" from him to uniquely partner with him on earth; which actually sees (in the context of Martha's complaint) "dinner served too."

P - Lord who lets us choose,

Thank you that Martha is no less loved than Mary. Thank you for engaging us in real relationship where the choices of both parties really do matter. I will keep following. Jesus, I do, and want to, choose the one thing which is needed. I choose you back.

All my love,

Steve