Luke 10:38-42

To seek Him and to draw near to Him.

Last week I had the joy of attending the Graduation Service of Joanna Ang and Jonathan Chan from the Tung Ling Bible School. Both attended the School of Ministry course of study and underwent three months of intensive bible study and reflections. They each have their own reasons for enrolling in the course. Joanna, being a member of the staff team, felt the need to be equipped while Jonathan, our young adult, wanted to be serious with God by going deeper into His Words and truths. Congratulations to the both of them!

but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her. (Lk10:42)

The theme for their graduation “One Thing, Not Many” has been on my mind since. Now the theme is taken from Luke 10:38-42. That time Martha opened her home to Jesus, who was visiting. While there, Martha was busy playing host. But Mary, her sister, sat at the feet of Jesus listening to the Master. Martha, having felt exasperated, asked Jesus to tell Mary to get up and help out. That’s where Jesus replied “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
This story is a reminder that we do not let all our busyness (including serving God and church activities) distract us from the one thing that is the most important. That is, to seek Him and to draw near to Him. In another story the rich young ruler asked Jesus what must I do to inherit eternal life. Jesus then quoted portions of the 10 commandments and the ruler claimed that he had observed them since young.
Then Jesus added you still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me. (Luke 18:22) Upon hearing this the man walked away very sad.
In the month of October let us pursue the one thing, that is, to be near Jesus. And not let any one thing take us away from Jesus.