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What is Most Important? Dave Shaner December 29, 2002

Introduction: One of the hardest things to do is to keep balanced. Every day we are bombarded with things to do and decide. How do I decide what is most important?

Text: Luke 10:38-42

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!" "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

I. Background:

A. The story likely takes place in Bethany, Martha's home.

B. Jesus was going to Jerusalem.

As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.  - Luke 9:51

C. If you knew you had only six months to live, what would you do?

D. This story is not about time management but of discipleship.

II. Cast of Players:

A. Martha - Martha is tending to the details of preparation. She was agitated over Mary not helping.

B. Jesus - He re-focuses Martha on what is really important.

C. Mary - She loves the Lord and finds fulfillment in being with him.

III. Lessons for Us:

A. There are always _______________ to take our eyes off what is most important.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: "Everyone is looking for you!" Jesus replied, "Let us go somewhere else--to the nearby villages--so I can preach there also. That is why I have come."  - Mark 1:35-38

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  - Matthew 6:33

"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices--mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law--justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.  - Matthew 23:23

B. Losing focus, you get ______________ and ______________.

C. ______________ and ______________ can develop when you focus on others rather than your own responsibilities.

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you  - I Thessalonians 4:11

Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?") When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?" Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me."  - John 21:20-22

D. ______________ to keep what is important is a _____________ decision.

Conclusion: Are you keeping what is most important the forefront of all that you do?

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