BEING vs DOING

In our fast-paced world, the pressure to do more and achieve more is relentless. We measure our days by how much we accomplish and our worth by our productivity. Yet, in the midst of this ceaseless activity, we can lose sight of the essence of our faith: our relationship with God. The story of Mary and Martha reminds us that “being” in God’s presence is foundational to our Christian walk.

Martha welcomed Jesus into her home, an act of hospitality that is commendable and necessary. She busied herself with preparations, ensuring that everything was perfect for her guest. Yet, in her earnest efforts, she became overwhelmed and frustrated, especially with her sister Mary, who chose to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to His words.

Jesus’ gentle rebuke to Martha is a profound lesson for us: “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.” In this moment, Jesus highlighted the importance of prioritizing our relationship with Him over our works and tasks.

1. The Essence of Being:

To “be” with God means to cultivate an intimate relationship with Him, to sit at His feet, and to listen to His voice. It involves setting aside time to pray, meditate on His Word, and simply rest in His presence. This communion with God transforms our hearts and minds, aligning our desires and actions with His will.

2. The Overflow of Being:

Our “doing” should flow naturally from our “being.” When we spend time in God’s presence, we are filled with His love, wisdom, and strength. Our actions then become a reflection of our relationship with Him. The work we do is not driven by anxiety or a need to prove ourselves but by a desire to serve and glorify God.

3. The Danger of Doing Without Being:

When we focus solely on doing, we risk becoming like Martha—distracted, anxious, and frustrated. Our service, though well-intentioned, can become a source of stress and burnout if it is not rooted in a deep relationship with God. We may miss the joy and peace that comes from being in His presence, and our works, though abundant, may lack the spiritual fruit that only intimacy with God can produce.

Reflection and Prayer:

Take a moment to reflect on your daily routine. How much time do you spend being with God versus doing for God? Are you like Mary, sitting at Jesus’ feet, or like Martha, worried and upset about many things?

Ask God to help you prioritize your relationship with Him. Pray for a heart that longs to be in His presence and for the grace to balance your tasks with moments of quiet communion with Him.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the invitation to sit at Your feet and listen to Your voice. Forgive me for the times I have been more focused on doing than being. Help me to prioritize my relationship with You above all else. Teach me to rest in Your presence, to find joy and strength in our communion. May my actions be an overflow of my time spent with You, reflecting Your love and grace to the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Conclusion:

As we go about our daily lives, let us remember that our primary calling is to be with God. From this place of intimacy, our actions will have eternal significance and bear lasting fruit. Choose to be like Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet, and you will find that everything else falls into place.