October 15th~The One Thing

John 8:21-59

Luke 10:1-11:13

We have been in the New Testament now for three weeks. While it is refreshing to be reading the stories and teachings of Jesus, it has been a challenge to know exactly where to focus. Today is no exception. We encountered a variety of conversations and events, and it is difficult to know how to summarize them in a devotion.

Having said that, I believe that Jesus’ words to Martha cut to the core of all that we read today. “My dear Martha,” He said, “you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it...” (Luke 10:41, 42). Martha’s sister, Mary, being a good host to her special guests, was caught up in all of the preparations. While she had good intentions and was involved in good things, they were distracting her from what was most important. The Messiah was in her house yet she was consumed with the meal.

As Jesus spoke to the people at the Temple about “the truth that would set them free,” they were more consumed with their ancestry. “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean ‘set free’?” (John 8:31-36). This statement would be similar to a citizen of the United States saying, “But we are Americans; we have never been conquered by anyone. Why do we need to be set free?” What the Jews did not understand was that they were slaves to sin, and that Jesus was there to deliver them from their bondage to it. Their pedigree was more important than their souls.

Followers of Christ can also get distracted from the most important thing. When the 72 disciples returned to report to Jesus of their successes, Jesus replied, “Don’t rejoice just because evil spirits obey you. Rejoice because you are registered as citizens of heaven” (Luke 10:20).

Daily Reflection

Summarize “the one thing.” What exactly is to be your focus in life?

Satan is the great deceiver; he is also the great distracter. He wants you to think that there are more important things to be concerned about. He wants to keep you in a fog, wandering in the sea, so that you will lose sight of the lighthouse.

With what distractions has Satan filled your life, to keep you from focusing on “the one thing”?

Life is busy. There are so many things to be done each day. How, then, are you supposed to stay focused on “the one thing” in the midst of all that is “necessary”? How do you discern what deserves your time and what must be cut out?

BiAY.org | Day 288 — 77 Days to Go