As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42, NLT)

I have read this set of scripture many times. And many times I have thought about Martha. I have heard so many thoughts and opinions about her, and what she should have done. I would imagine she had many responsibilities, chores and jobs. Given her responsibilities and the things that were expected of her, what was she supposed to do? How should she have handled the situation differently? What are we supposed to do when we have to take care of the chores that we must accomplish in life? It seemed as though Martha was doing a good thing, by being a servant.

Where did she really go wrong?

…but Martha was distracted…

She was too distracted by the cares of this life. And the cares of this life caused her to be worried and upset.

Oh, how often and how easy it is to get distracted by “life.” And when life distracts, how easy to get worried and upset by it!

So, how do we keep from being so distracted by the cares of this life, when the cares of this life are unavoidable? How do we get through the day to day (jobs, chores, mothering, etc.) without losing our focus on what really matters? How do we maintain focus on the only thing worth being concerned about?

The first step is to “Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

The next step is to readjust and regain focus! He is where we find life (we already know this, but sometimes we need to be reminded)!

What does this look like?

Instead of just washing the dishes, I can put on some worship music while I work – and worship Him.

Instead of just vacuuming the floor, I can pray.

Instead of just making a trip to the grocery store, I can be a witness to others.

And sometimes I have to know when it is okay to let that basket of laundry go for a while, and take time to sit and study the Word – because sometimes that is what I am being called to do.

My children will watch me, and learn from me. I must teach them what is really important!

Angel is a wife, mother and a servant of God who enjoys drinking coffee and Bible study, writing and teaching. You will find her writing for Jesus at Vision61 Ministries. Learn more about her, the ministry, and how to connect HERE.