11/07/2026
The Better Portion Awaits
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
“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 away from her.” Luke 10:38–42:
This passage teaches that not everything on earth is equally important or worthy of being our "good portion." Too often, we neglect gathering to worship God because we think that our concerns-our work, family, material possessions, responsibilities, or even the fear of death-are just as important as spending time with Him.
Jesus' words to Martha remind us that God Himself is our greatest priority. Remaining in His presence is more important than our errands, chores, and daily responsibilities. These things have their proper place, but they should never take precedence over worshiping and seeking the Lord.
Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet because she recognized that He was her greatest treasure. That is why Jesus said she had chosen the good portion. Her reward was not material gain but the privilege of knowing and enjoying the presence of God—a blessing that would never be taken away from her.
This challenges us to examine our own priorities. Do we treat worship as optional whenever life becomes busy, or do we recognize that Christ Himself is our greatest portion? Like Mary, may we choose what is eternal over what is temporary, making God's presence our highest priority.
Remember this: Martha was not rebuked because serving or caring for family was wrong. Jesus' concern was that her service had become a distraction from what was most important at that moment-being with Him. Responsibilities matter, but they should never replace devotion to Christ.