“…Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:42 (NIV)
Jesus didn’t blame Martha for being concerned about household chores. He was only asking her to set priorities.
Service to Christ can degenerate into mere busywork that is totally devoid of devotion to God. A day is coming when we will fall to our knees and ‘lay our crowns at the feet of Jesus’ (Revelation 4:10-11).
Thus, we can identify three reasons for sitting at Jesus’ feet even now:
- It allows us to hear from God first. In Luke 8:4-15, Jesus tells the parable of the sower and the importance of hearing the Word of God. In explaining the meaning of the parable, He warns against seeds that fall among thorns. These represent those who hear the Word of God but go on their way as they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature. Sitting at Jesus’ feet helps us to avoid being this kind of seed.
- It allows us to recognise who He is. In Luke 17:16, the Samaritan leper fell at Jesus’ feet in gratitude after Jesus healed him. Being at Jesus’ feet represents an act of worship and giving Him the same honour reserved for God, which is an open acknowledgement that the person recognises who Jesus is, and that there is something special about Him.
- It shows a sense of trust. When Mary sat at Jesus’ feet in Luke 10, there was a sense of quiet trust. She rested in Jesus’ presence and did not worry about all the “many things,” (V 41) like her sister Martha.
By trusting in God, we can understand that we are only co-workers and stewards of God’s work. We are not the ones who make things happen. It is God Himself.
Spending time at Jesus’ feet is important, and it is the ‘one thing’ or ‘good portion’ that we all need to seek. It is essential to hear God’s Word, meditate and act on it.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for inviting us into Your presence and for allowing us to sit at Your feet, as Mary did. We cast our cares and burdens on You, knowing You care for us. Thank You for showing us Your ways, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Psalm 132:7; Matthew 4:4
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 1:1-7; Matthew 4:1-22; Genesis 7; Genesis 8; Genesis 9:1-17