Sermon on Mary and Martha: Choosing the Best Part

Choosing the Best Part: In the Presence of Jesus

We turn to the familiar story of Martha and Mary, a story that speaks to the heart of our relationship with Jesus. It’s a story about choices, priorities, and the true meaning of being in the presence of our Lord.

1. Jesus Wants to Be Welcomed into Our Lives (Luke 10:38):

"Now it happened, as they were on their way, that Jesus entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed him into her house." Martha's act of hospitality is commendable. She opened her home to Jesus. This simple act reveals a profound truth: Jesus desires to be welcomed into our lives, into the very core of our being.

2. The Different Positions of the Two Sisters (Luke 10:39):

"And she had a sister named Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to his word." We see two contrasting postures. Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet, absorbing His words, while Martha was consumed with preparations. This illustrates a fundamental choice we all face: to prioritize the presence of Jesus or to be consumed by the distractions of life.

3. Distraction with Many Things (Luke 10:40a):

"But Martha was distracted with much serving." Martha’s busyness became a distraction. Her focus shifted from Jesus to the tasks at hand. This is a common struggle. Even good works can become a hindrance when they overshadow our relationship with God. Not everything we do is essential; we must discern what truly matters.

4. Martha’s Frustration and Her Request to Jesus (Luke 10:40b):

"And she came to him and said, ‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.’” Martha's frustration led her to try and manipulate Jesus, to bring Him into her perspective. How often do we try to dictate to God how He should handle our situations, instead of surrendering to His will?

5. Jesus’ Loving Call (Luke 10:41):

"But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things.’” Jesus' response is filled with tenderness. He calls her name twice, showing His deep care. He addresses her anxiety, revealing His concern for her inner turmoil. Anxiety and overwork can rob us of the peace that Christ offers.

6. The Best Choice (Luke 10:42):

"But one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” Jesus cuts to the heart of the matter. He declares that only one thing is truly necessary: being in His presence. Mary's choice was the "good portion," the superior choice, the one that endures.

7. The Danger of Spiritual Activism Without Intimacy with God (Luke 10:41b):

"You are anxious and troubled about many things.” We can be active in ministry, involved in countless church activities, yet lack genuine intimacy with God. Service is important, but it should never replace devotion. We must be careful not to mistake activity for spirituality.

8. The Call to a Personal Relationship with Christ (Luke 10:42a):

"Mary has chosen the good portion.” God invites us into a personal relationship with Him. He desires our hearts, our attention, our love. Our primary calling is not to work for God, but to be with God.

9. The Value of God’s Word Above Life’s Concerns (Luke 10:42b):

"Which will not be taken away from her.” Everything in this world is temporary, fleeting. But what we receive from God—His love, His wisdom, His presence—is eternal. Our priority should be that which has lasting value.

10. The Balance Between Service and Worship (Luke 10:42):

"But one thing is necessary.” This doesn’t mean we should abandon service. It means we must find a balance between service and worship. We must learn to serve from a place of intimacy with God, allowing His presence to guide and empower our actions.

Sermon on Mary and Martha: Choosing the Best Part

Conclusion

Let us learn from Mary and choose the "good portion." Let us prioritize our relationship with Jesus, sitting at His feet, listening to His voice, and allowing His presence to transform our lives. Let us remember that true service flows from a heart that is deeply connected to the Lord. Amen.