SEEKING CHRIST ABOVE ALL (RELATIONSHIP VERSUS HOSPITALITY)
OCTOBER 28, 2024
TEXT:
Luke 10:41-42
“And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
Today’s discussion centers on two biologically related yet distinct sisters, Martha and Mary, friends of Jesus Christ and sisters to Lazarus. Whenever Jesus visited their home, these sisters demonstrated different behaviors. Martha was eager to engage in acts of hospitality, ensuring physical comfort and needs were met. In contrast, Mary would stay close to Jesus, absorbing His teachings.
On one occasion, Martha’s frustration boiled over as she complained to Jesus about Mary’s lack of assistance. However, Jesus gently chided Martha, emphasizing Mary’s spiritual nourishment over physical tasks. This exchange doesn’t imply Jesus was ungrateful for Martha’s efforts but rather highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual sustenance.
This scenario resonates with many today who prioritize physical work and activities for Christ while neglecting spiritual nourishment. Consequently, their spiritual well-being suffers. Matthew 6:33 reminds us to focus on God’s kingdom first, with other things being secondary. No matter how diligently we labor for God physically, it is meaningless without a strong spiritual foundation and intimate walk with Him.
KEY TAKE-HOMES FROM THIS DISCUSSION
- Intimacy with God supersedes mere religious activities or services.
- Identify potential distractions and develop strategies to manage them.
- Set priorities, ensuring nothing competes with your time with God.
- Recognize the need for spiritual nourishment and intentionally pursue it.
SEARCHLIGHT:
God values a deep relationship with us over our physical work and activities for Him. He prefers a solid “walk with Him” over merely “working for Him.”
PRAYER:
LORD, open my heart to know You more, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.
BIBLE READING:
Ezekiel 34-36, Matthew 26
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
