The Good Portion, Luke 10:38-42

This post explores the meaning of ‘the good portion’ mentioned by Jesus.

The Good Portion discusses what Jesus said about Mary’s choice. Luke 10:38-42. “…Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house…she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching…Martha …  distracted with much serving…she…said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me… the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha…anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing…necessary…Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

Firstly, note that Jesus did not denounce Martha for her work of serving. Instead, He just says Mary had chosen a higher plane of service— listening to Him.

The good portion equals listening to Jesus. Regular attendance in worship becomes an excellent way to listen to Jesus. (Also note that an additional benefit arises from worship attendance, Hebrews 10:24-25.) “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”

So, we not only benefit by listening to Jesus, but we also encourage others to do the same. Thus, if Martha would stop and think, Mary’s example should have influenced her to listen to Jesus.

Personal Bible reading and study also represents a powerful method of listening to Jesus. A specific time and place each day functions as a habit that duplicates Mary’s listening. Like Mary, we get to decide how to spend our time. Dedicating some time to listen to Jesus represents a proper choice.

Finally, Jesus adds a wonderful blessing that happens when we listen to Him: It will remain with us and not slip away.

What we hear from Jesus and incorporate into our lives shows itself in a permanent effect of hearing and doing what Jesus wants.

So, what did we learn?

1.Listening to Jesus makes up a better way to spend time.

2.Listening to Jesus equals valuable knowledge that does not get lost in life’s busy ways.

For more on the Bible, click tdroberts.org or https://justchristian.com or https://podcastjustchristian.com

#MaryMartha #ListeningJesus #NotTakenAway.