When Jesus visited the home of Mary and Martha, Mary sat at His feet listening to His words or teaching (His logos). Meanwhile, Martha, was busy serving (diakonia). There was nothing wrong with serving. The problem, as Scripture tells us, was that “Martha was distracted by all the preparations” (Luke 10:40a, NIV).

Doesn’t that tend to be our problem too? Our distractions often come disguised as opportunities. There is always another project, responsibility, person who needs us, or good thing we could be doing. We can become so busy doing things for Jesus that we neglect being with Jesus.

Eventually, Martha complained to Jesus. Here’s what happened next: “’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 from her’” (Luke 10:41–42, NIV).

Jesus wasn’t criticizing acts of service. He was establishing priority.

BIG IDEA: Mary first. There will be plenty of time for Martha.

This is especially important for those of us who are task-oriented. We can serve and serve until we’re living on the reserves of a relationship that was once vibrant.

Picture the fuel gauge on your car. You start with a full tank, but as you travel, you reach three-quarters, then half, then a quarter. Eventually the warning light comes on, but you keep going—even on fumes—because people need you and there’s work to be done.

When that happens, go back to the filling station.

Sit at the feet of Jesus. Listen to His Word. Fill up until you have not only enough Jesus for yourself but also an overflow of Jesus to give away to others. Love Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Then serve. Do the work. Fulfill your responsibilities. Love your family. Make your contribution. But do it out of the overflow of a vibrant relationship with Jesus.

As you go about your week, if you find yourself worried, upset, overwhelmed, or distracted, take a beat and make Jesus your first and best thought. For Him, the relationship is the task.

Always on your side,

Pat

For Reflection and Discussion

• Heart (Reflect): When have you experienced the peace and joy of simply being with Jesus?
• Head (Understand): Why does Jesus commend Mary without condemning Martha’s service?
• Hands (Apply): Are you living out of the overflow of your relationship with Jesus, or driving on fumes? What will you do this week to prioritize the way of Mary first?

Want to go deeper?

Read Chapter 1 of A Reason to Get Out of Bed, watch the complete Man Alive Bible Study that inspired today’s Weekly Wisdom on YouTube, or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music.