“…she…sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word.” – Luke 10:39 (NKJV)
As we begin this journey into a new season and year, 2026, there is no better way for us to navigate other than by listening to the voice of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, as He guides and directs us daily through our journey.
The best place we can position ourselves to hear His voice is to be seated at His feet. Literally, this may not be possible, but it applies to creating a secret place where we fellowship with Him through praise, thanksgiving, prayer, and meditation on His Word.
The Gospel of Luke 10:38-41 emphasises that Jesus entered a certain village, where He was welcomed into the home of Martha, who had a sister called Mary. As was customary then and remains so today, when a guest is invited to your home, it is your responsibility to provide a meal for that individual. In the case of Jesus, however, He was not alone. He always had followers, including His twelve disciples.
Upon His entry to their home, Mary took the opportunity to sit at His feet and listen to His words. What a place to be! Martha, on the other hand, was distracted by her service to the guests, and to her consternation, Mary did not assist her, causing some tension in her heart.
Martha, having observed that her sister Mary seems unconcerned with her dilemma, approached Jesus for His intervention. Her words were: “…Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” (Luke 10:40). Isn’t that the way we behave at times towards each other, when the work load seems too much for us to handle, while the other party is sitting, meditating on the Words of Jesus in the Bible?
Jesus spoke to Martha in the same way He is saying to us today. With a compassionate heart, He spoke words of comfort to Martha, who was worried and troubled about many things. His final statement to Martha should be a word of admonition to us all. “…one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.”
Praise God. You and I have been allowed to choose the good part, which will not be taken away from us as we journey in 2026.
Some of the benefits Mary received are available to us today, including:
- Revelation – when we slow down and open our hearts to listen, the Holy Spirit brings understanding, clarity, and guidance. The answers you need this year are found where Mary was — near to Jesus, listening.
- Peace – Jesus told Martha, “You are troubled about many things…” When we sit with Jesus, He quiets the storms inside us and gives rest that the world cannot offer. John 14:27 (NKJV) says, “…My peace I give you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled…”. Jesus offers a deep, spiritual peace (Shalom) that transcends worldly troubles, promising His presence and strength to keep our hearts from fear.
As we embark on the journey into the new season, let us walk circumspectly under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Today, make the choice Mary made. Slow down, listen and rest in His presence because everything you need is found at His feet.
Read: Jeremiah 33:3; Luke 11:28
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 6; Matthew 5:43-48; Matthew 6:1-24; Genesis 14; Genesis 15; Genesis 16