There are many things you could be doing right now, but here you are, reading this article. That’s awesome!
Let’s be honest though—life… is… busy. Even when we’re reading the Bible, assembling with the saints, or talking with our neighbor, our minds might be elsewhere. Maybe we’re thinking about something we did yesterday, what someone just posted on Facebook, or what we have to do at work or school this week. In our notification-filled world, we all face an overwhelming number of distractions pulling us away from what truly matters.
A Story That Still Speaks Today
That brings us to a story in Luke 10. Though it took place nearly 2,000 years ago, it’s incredibly relevant today—a story we can learn from, one that might even give us permission to change.
In Luke 10:38, Jesus is traveling. As He enters a village, a woman named Martha welcomes Him into her home. This is a kind and admirable act of hospitality. Jesus, as a man, often had nowhere to lay His head, despite doing a difficult job that required constant travel and dealing with difficult people. Martha’s hospitality was a way of honoring and supporting His godly work (see 2 Kings 4:8–10 for a similar example).
In verse 39, we’re introduced to Martha’s sister, Mary, who is also portrayed as a good woman—sitting at Jesus’ feet and listening to Him teach. Both of these women seem devout and godly.
A Good Deed, a Bad Distraction
Unfortunately, by verse 40, a problem emerges. Martha, though doing a good thing, becomes distracted by her preparations for Jesus and His guests, while Mary remains focused on Jesus Himself. This leads to Martha erupting in frustration—even directing an accusation at Jesus. He had come to earth to save mankind, yet she has the nerve to ask Him, “Do you not care?!”
We might assume Mary never helped, or that Martha never listened—but the text doesn’t say either. In fact, many versions imply Martha had been sitting at Jesus’ feet as well. The issue isn’t what Martha was doing—it’s what she forgot. She lost sight of her purpose and the importance of her Guest.
When Service Turns to Stress
Can we relate to Martha? Of course. But we also need to listen to Jesus’ gentle but important correction to her—and to us.
Jesus responds to Martha in what I imagine was a calm, measured voice:
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary. For Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (v. 41)
Jesus understands Martha’s struggles better than anyone. She’s overwhelmed by the burden of service. Like us, she likely feels pulled in a dozen directions—by expectations as a host, a sister, and perhaps many other things. Jesus knows her heart. But He also knows her inner turmoil has spilled out in frustration.
Let’s be honest—it happens to us too. In the midst of all the burdens of things like school, work, family life, and many other things, we sometimes say things we regret when stress boils over. Sometimes we get caught up in life’s demands, and someone else bears the brunt of our anxiety.
The Better Part
Now let’s focus on what Mary did. She wasn’t scrolling Facebook or avoiding work—she was listening to Jesus. Her spiritual priority was clear.
While it was good that Martha showed hospitality, Jesus made it clear that only one thing is necessary.
I’ve seen and heard of women who miss half the sermon because they, like Martha, are preparing lunch. Is it possible that in both cases, some preparations could have been made earlier so that God’s word wasn’t neglected? Probably. Could it mean the food isn’t quite as fresh? Maybe. But Jesus makes it clear—our souls and God’s word must take priority.
Making Better Choices
Jesus doesn’t rebuke Martha for serving. He rebukes her for allowing it to become a distraction. He isn’t saying Mary should never help or prepare meals—He’s saying we must choose based on what’s better, not just what’s good.
Often, we’re offered “good” opportunities: to work overtime, to entertain guests, to attend activities with our kids. These things aren’t wrong—but if they consistently push God to the side, that’s a problem.
Jesus didn’t give Martha the answer she wanted. He didn’t say, “You’re right, Mary should help.” Instead, He praised Mary for choosing what mattered most: spiritual nourishment.
Living This Out Today
So how can we, like Mary, choose the good part?
It might mean working fewer hours if possible, saying “no” to extra activities, or turning off our devices for a while. None of these things are inherently bad, but they can clutter our lives, drain our energy, and pull us away from God.
Maybe you can’t cut back on obligations due to your current life situation. Even then, can you bring “the one necessary thing” into your day? Sure! In Deuteronomy 6:6–9, God gives the Israelites a command that weaves His word into every part of life. We aren’t under the Law of Moses, but the principle still holds great value.
Will We Choose the Good Part?
At the end of the day, we must ask ourselves honestly: Are we too distracted by many things? Are we neglecting the “one necessary thing”?
If so, it’s time to change. Like Mary, we must choose the good part—and not let it be taken from us.
If there’s any way we can help you choose the good part, we hope you’ll let us!
