Distracted Followers
Scripture Reading — Luke 10:38-42
Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She … asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself?”
—Luke 10:40
Sunday, the day of worship for Christians, is a good day to be reminded of our need for priorities. Wherever possible, followers of Jesus will gather to focus on the God who has revealed himself in his Son, Jesus Christ. It’s a need we have in a world of distractions, and we’re wise to gather together to praise God and hear his Word.
Our passage today tells about Mary and Martha. Imagine the scene. Jesus is in the main gathering room, teaching the truths of the kingdom, explaining how God calls everyone to live. The disciples interject with their questions, and Mary is taking it all in. In the meantime, hostess Martha has been preparing a meal of tasty meat, bread, and vegetables—all by herself. She’s frazzled. She’s about to explode!
Lamenting her lonely task, Martha complains to Jesus, “Don’t you care … ?” Jesus surprises us with his answer. He recognizes Martha’s concerns and her being upset, but, instead of agreeing with her, he commends Mary’s choice of listening to the words of her Lord. Mary has chosen the better thing to do, and Jesus promises it will serve her well.
We need to choose, each week, what is the better thing for us to do. Distractions abound, but followers of Jesus who get distracted from worshiping with God’s people miss an essential activity.
Dear Lord, help us to prioritize our time, making sure we gather with your people for worship and to hear you speak. Amen.
About the author — George Vink
Pastor George Vink has served as a pastor in the Christian Reformed Church for more than 30 years in British Columbia, Montana, Michigan, and California. He and his wife, Shirley, have four married sons and nine grandchildren.
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