ONE THING NEEDED

 

Bible Reading:Luke 10:38–42

But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part,

which will not be taken away from her.

Luke 10:42 

As Jesus entered the home of Martha and Mary, the two sisters responded to Him differently. Martha expressed her love through generous service, while Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught” (Luke 10:39). Martha’s service was commendable, but it had become a distraction from the One she was serving. With gentle compassion, Jesus reminded her that “only one thing is needed.” Before we can faithfully serve Christ, we must first learn to be with Him. Listening is the beginning of every act of true obedience.

Yet before we can do God’s will, we must first know His heart. Mary chose what Jesus called “the better part”—a heart attentive to His presence and His Word. C. S. Lewis writes, “Do not waste time bothering whether you ‘love’ your neighbour; act as if you did.” As we listen to Christ, the Holy Spirit shapes our hearts, and obedience grows into genuine love. Service without communion soon becomes anxiety, while time spent with Christ becomes the source of joyful and faithful service.

Today, before we seek to do more for Christ, we are called to spend time with Christ. As we begin each day in His presence through Scripture and prayer, He transforms our hearts before He directs our hands. Then our work becomes worship, our service reflects His compassion, and our lives bear witness to His love. Amid life’s many demands, may we choose the one thing needed—to sit at the feet of Jesus, listen to His voice, and follow Him in loving obedience.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, 

Teach us to treasure Your Word above every distraction and to listen carefully for Your voice. Fill us with Your love, so that our service flows from our fellowship with You and reflects the compassion of Christ. 

Amen.