Don’t Miss the Moment: Life.Church Midweek

Title

Choosing the “One Thing” — Drawing Near Instead of Being Drawn Away

Scripture References

• Luke 10:38-42 – Mary and Martha reveal the contrast between distraction and devotion.
• Psalm 27:4, 8 – David’s single desire to “seek Your face” models the heart posture Jesus affirms.

Main Information and Key Points

1. I notice how easily a servant-heart can slide into a control-heart. Martha wanted the meal perfect for Jesus, yet her need to manage every detail pulled her away from the very Guest she longed to honor.
2. Jesus’ gentle repetition, “Martha, Martha,” reminds me that He wants my attention more than my activity. He calls her worries “many things,” but affirms that only “one thing is needed.”
3. Mary chose that “one thing” by sitting at His feet. Her posture teaches me that relationship, not performance, is what delights the Lord.
4. Distraction literally means “drawn away.” In this COVID-19 season I can be drawn away by news, social media, or even well-intentioned projects. If I’m not careful, I will spend all my energy preparing for a moment with God and never experience the moment itself.
5. David’s prayer in Psalm 27 echoes Mary’s choice: to live close enough to God that He “takes pleasure in my every prayer.” Intimacy with God is always a decision—“We are as intimate with God as we choose to be.”

Personal Reflection and Application

• I ask myself, “Does God miss my face right now?” If so, I need to turn down non-essential noise—perhaps practice some “media distancing”—and turn my gaze toward Him.
• Every sight or sound today can become a prayer prompt. When I see a headline, a family member, even our noisy parakeets, I will pause to thank Jesus or intercede.
• I have time for what I choose to have time for. I intend to schedule stillness with God before scheduling anything else, moving from duty to delight.

Prayer and Blessing

Pastor Craig led us in prayer, and I echo his words: “Father, give me the heart of Mary. In every season—busy or quiet—may my gaze be fixed on You. Draw me near as I draw near to You, and let my life become continual worship.”

Summary

In this devotional I’m challenged to surrender my need for control and embrace continual intimacy with Jesus. Like Mary (and King David), I choose the essential “one thing”: sitting at His feet, listening, and letting every ordinary moment become a meeting place with Him.