Hearing His Word

The advance of modern technology has its disadvantages. Along with better communication and more effective cures it brings with it a constant barrage of distractions. The seemingly infinite number of calls, emails, texts, and commercials tends to interrupt our concentration on things that matter most. But then, the world's countless distractions have always been problematic. For example Martha was tempted to distraction by household chores for she was anxious and troubled about many things.

In this situation Mary's example is instructive. As a godly woman she was no less hospitable than her sister. Yet when Jesus arrived she sat at the Lord's feet and listened to His teaching (Lk 10:39). The preposition at, perhaps better rendered toward, suggests a posture of humble receptivity. Mary's entire focus was Christ-ward. She digested every word. It required conscious effort, for it meant refusing to let otherwise good things distract her from the one thing necessary (v. 42). Mary's priorities were straight. Her mind was alert. Her attention was riveted. It was to her as if time stood still and like Wesley’s experience centuries later, her heart was strangely warmed.

The contrast between Mary and Martha is not one of faith and unbelief. Rather it is one of focus and distraction. Both women loved Jesus. But only one at His feet enjoyed undistracted fellowship with Him. To which are you most prone? We are not ignorant of the devil's schemes. If he can't dissuade you from believing the truth, he will try to distract you from hearing the word. It is a subtle method of taking away from us the good portion (v. 42). In a day of unprecedented hustle and bustle, what steps have you taken to ensure a posture of humble receptivity to what is most important in life? Are your priorities straight? Do you resolutely make time for the one thing necessary?