Have We Replaced Relationship for Busyness? From Martha to Mary.

In our world today, it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of life, even within ministry and good works. We fill our days with checklists, serving others, attending gatherings, and seeking ways to make an impact for the Kingdom. But amid all this, we may be missing the most essential part of our faith: our relationship with Jesus.

The Story of Martha and Mary

The story of Martha and Mary, found in Luke 10:38-42, speaks powerfully to this tendency. When Jesus visited their home, Martha was busy with preparations, her mind filled with the details of serving well. Mary, however, sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to His words. Martha, frustrated by the weight of her tasks, asked Jesus why He allowed Mary to leave her to serve alone. But instead of agreeing with Martha’s perspective, Jesus gently corrected her: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

The Danger of Busyness in Our Walk with God

Martha’s actions weren’t wrong; she was serving Jesus, after all. But her busyness pulled her focus away from the One she was serving. In many ways, we can become modern-day Marthas—filling our days with things that feel productive but subtly replace intimacy with Christ. Service and ministry are beautiful acts, but if they replace our time at His feet, our relationship with Jesus becomes shallow, leading to burnout, frustration, and even feelings of inadequacy.

The enemy would love nothing more than to keep us so busy with good things that we miss out on the best thing—sitting in Jesus’ presence and hearing His voice.

Choosing the “Better Part”

Choosing to be more like Mary means intentionally setting aside time to be with Jesus, not just when it’s convenient. This isn’t just about carving out time to read the Bible or pray as part of a daily routine (though these are essential!). It’s about cultivating a heart that prioritizes His presence and treasures moments of worship and surrender. Mary’s posture reflected her understanding that Jesus’ words were life-giving and more satisfying than any accomplishment or act of service.

So, how do we go from Martha to Mary?

1. Create Space for Stillness: Quiet your heart before the Lord regularly. This may mean putting aside some tasks or obligations. Ask yourself: Am I making enough room for uninterrupted time with God?
2. Seek Him First: Before diving into your day or serving others, seek God in prayer. Allow Him to refresh you so that everything you do flows from a place of connection with Him.
3. Check Your Heart: Even when you’re in ministry or helping others, regularly examine your heart. Are you motivated by love for Jesus, or is your focus slipping towards meeting expectations or fulfilling obligations?
4. Practice Listening: Just as Mary sat and listened, make it a priority to hear from God. Spend time in His Word and let His Spirit speak to you. His words are the foundation for every decision, action, and purpose.

Closing Thoughts

God isn’t calling us to stop serving, but He wants us to serve from a heart rooted in love and devotion to Him. Let’s strive to be more like Mary, choosing the “better part” that will never be taken away. In a world that measures worth by productivity, let’s remember that God values relationship over results. Choosing intimacy over busyness draws us closer to His heart and keeps us aligned with His purposes.

May we each find rest, peace, and joy at His feet, just like Mary did. And in doing so, may we be renewed to serve more fully, knowing that everything flows from a relationship with Him.