A pastoral reflection on Luke 10:38–42 during our season of transition
We live in a culture that rewards hustle. If we’re not productive, we feel like we’re falling behind. If we’re not doing something—anything—we start to wonder if we’re doing enough to matter.
Even in the church, we can slip into the belief that activity equals faithfulness. And during times of change, it can be especially tempting to rush toward busyness as a way to feel in control. We put style over substance. Busyness over spiritual depth. A full Church calendar is sometimes confused with Kingdom impact.
But Jesus, as He so often does, invites us into something deeper, something more generous.
In Luke 10, He steps into the home of two sisters, Mary and Martha. One is hard at work preparing the meal and managing the house. The other is sitting quietly at His feet, soaking in His presence. Most of us—if we’re honest—would side with Martha. There’s work to be done! Let’s get moving!
And yet, Jesus speaks a word we all need to hear:
Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.
He doesn’t scold Martha for caring. He doesn’t dismiss her effort. But He does gently name what’s happening: she’s distracted, anxious, and missing the moment right in front of her.
As a congregation in the midst of a leadership transition, it’s easy to feel that same pull. What do we need to do? Who’s going to handle this? What’s next? Shouldn’t we be forming committees, making plans, getting organized?
There is certainly a time for action—and that time will come. But it must not come at the expense of the better portion.
Before we rush to solve and strategize, we’re invited to rest at Jesus’ feet. To sit in His Word. To remember that this church is not held together by any one person—but by the faithful presence of Christ, who remains our Shepherd, always.
The peace we long for in transition doesn’t come from productivity. It comes from presence—His presence.
You don’t need to prove your worth to Him. You don’t need to keep the church afloat by your own strength. Jesus never asked Martha—or you—to earn His love. He asked her to trust it.
And trust is the heartbeat of this next chapter.
So here’s what I’m asking of you, dear friends in Christ:
Don’t let this season of change distract you from the better portion. Before you sign up to help, before you offer another hour of service, spend time with the One who holds all things together. Open your Bible. Pray for our church. Ask Jesus to center your heart in His peace.
Because if we start from His feet, we will rise with clarity, courage, and calm.
The good portion that Mary chose is still available. And Jesus still says it will not be taken away.
As I prepare to step into a new calling, I leave you with this deep hope: that West County Lutheran Church will be known not for how much it accomplishes, but for how faithfully it listens to the voice of the One who calls.
In His rest,
Pastor Mark
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