Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” - Luke 10:38-42
It’s interesting how Martha was the one who welcomed Jesus into her home. However, it was her sister who sat at His feet. It’s as if Martha forgot about Jesus, whenever she allowed herself to become extremely busy. I wonder how often God experiences this even today? How many of us have invited Jesus into our lives, yet have seemingly forgotten about Him; because we were too busy? Working hard is great, but when it overshadows time with the Lord, it becomes a distraction.
In verse 42, Jesus told Martha that Mary chose the “good portion”, which was sitting at His feet. He also mentioned that it would "not be taken away from her”. Many things in life can be taken away, but communion with God is not one of them. We’re currently in a season where loss has become prevalent, and things have become uncertain. Yet God remains on the throne, ready to commune with His children. He is constant in both trials and triumph, and always available. Regardless of what may be happening in the world, be it a storm, disaster, or pandemic; God will never be shaken. It has become abundantly clear that finances, academics, social gatherings, and even health aren't sources of stability. They've all been shaken in this season, and have failed to sustain humanity during its time of need. We simply can't invest our full confidence in those things, they'll never sustain us. Mary recognized that there was no better place to be than at the feet of Jesus. She was aware of the opportunity and took great advantage of it.
I believe that God looks forward to spending time with us. Not like some desperate, needy butler; but like a good Father who desires the company of His children. God doesn't want to watch us from the sidelines; He desires to do life with us, and be a part of every single moment! However, we must be intentional about including Him in our lives. As I was studying this message and praying, I had a vision of the Lord sitting at a long dining table alone. Although there were several chairs set up, there were no guests seated with Him. I believe that we've all been invited to partake in the presence of the Lord, and He is waiting for us to accompany Him at the table. God wants us to commune with Him and take part in the feast that He has prepared for us.
When I’m with my friends we get food, we go shopping, and sometimes we even run errands together. The purpose of hanging out isn't just to have fun, but to spend quality time together, and maintain our connection. It used to be very difficult for me to spend time with God. Because I felt like I had to perform or get busy in His presence (like Martha). However, whenever I began to view God as a friend and include Him in my everyday tasks; my relationship with Him deepened. Now I speak to Him as I drive, go for walks, and even when I take showers. So be creative with how you spend time with God. Remember, all Mary did was sit at His feet and listen to His teachings! It's just that simple!
How would you feel if you purchased an extravagant gift for your friend, yet they never open it? Jesus gave us the greatest gift of all, and it would be such a shame if we wasted it. He reconciled us with the father and paid the ultimate price so that we could indulge in a life-changing relationship with God. So, take full advantage of your relationship with God, and don't waste any opportunities to sit at His feet.
Unlike Mary and Martha, we can't physically have Jesus in our homes, seated in our living rooms. However, we do have an advantage because we don't have to wait for Jesus to pass through. At any moment, we can encounter Him, sit at His feet, and listen to what He has to say. So don't grow too familiar with the presence of God. When Jesus is in the room, acknowledge Him and enjoy His company; because He enjoys yours.
STAY INSPIRED!
