There are a number of interpretations of the meaning of the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10. Some think the story states contemplation is superior to task orientation. Some think “type B” personalities are judged as better than “type A.”

What Jesus indicates, however, is the idea of “the one thing.” The one thing can be defined as time spent listening to God’s Word. Or the one thing can be defined as taking action on what God’s Word says. The one thing is different things at different times to different people.

We need to listen to what the Holy Spirit says the one thing is to us. Some of us need to recommit our lives to be about one thing — hear God’s Word and put it into practice.