Have You Chosen That Good Part?

Some of my lovely azaleas ~ April 10, 2013

 

And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things.  Luke 10:41

I spent some time with this familiar story this week.  I almost heard my name being called as I meditated on it.

Jesus and those with Him came into Martha’s village, and she received them into her house.  How wonderful that she welcomed Him and those with him into her home.  Certainly she is to be commended for her hospitality and willingness to serve.  Her sister, Mary, was there too. 

But while Martha is busy multi-tasking, preparing the food and serving her guests, Mary sat at Jesus feet and listened to Him.  Bless her heart!  The Master had entered into their home, and she wanted only to sit at His feet and listen to His every word.  She adored Him.  Worldly cares, responsibilities, duties were all forgotten as she focused wholly on Him.  How could she think of food preparation! Her soul was being fed.

But Martha.  Oh how I identify with Martha.  She was busy in the kitchen.  I can imagine she had so many tasks going on at once.  Possibly she wiped a bit of sweat from her brow as she focused on the cares in her little world.  Possibly a little anger and resentment entered her heart as she thought of Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet while she scrambled around serving all.  Martha was offended that Mary didn’t share her passion and help her get the work done.

…Lord, doest thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me.  Luke 10:40b

Obviously Martha was a believer.  She had received Christ into her home.  At some point, she had received the good news of the gospel.  I am reminded of the parables about the good seed.

He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word: and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.  Matthew 13:22

Martha was a hardworking woman.  We know she wanted to be fruitful.  But, alas, those cares!  While she was in the kitchen stirring that pot, she was missing an opportunity of a lifetime.

Jesus did not share Martha’s perspective.  He sees beyond the here and now. 

And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:  But one thing is needful:  and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.  Luke 10: 41-42

One thing is needful.

Mary had chosen.  Ah…choice.  That element of free will exercised.  Choose you this day!

That good part.

That shall not be taken away.

I am convicted.  I am Martha.  I discipline myself to be Mary.  I pray to see from Jesus’ perspective and worship at His feet with an undivided heart. 

 So that “the good part” becomes my second-nature.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.  Matthew 6:33

I've been known to make some fine cakes for my guests. :-)

 



Thank you for visiting Write Moments with God.  I appreciate you so much. 

Consider leaving a comment below, or you can write me at writemoments@gmail.com.  God bless you.  I pray that you choose the good part that shall not be taken away from you.