One Thing Is Needed

Hospitality is a beautiful act of fellowship, and Scripture calls it a sacrifice pleasing to God Hebrews 13:16. But the value of that sacrifice is not measured by how much we prepare or how elaborate our table is — it is measured by the openness of our heart. If preparing a meal leaves us taxed, exhausted, and frustrated, it is not what God is asking of us. He desires communion with us and between us, not a performance to impress others.

Even in the instructions for the Lord’s Supper, in 1Cor 11, Paul reminds believers they can eat and drink at home, but when they gather, it should be for one purpose — to honor Christ together. A modest, simple approach to hospitality is often better than none at all, because it frees us to focus on the guests themselves — listening, praying, encouraging, and worshiping — rather than exhausting ourselves with decorations and elaborate menus that shift the spotlight away from Christ.

The NIV captures this well: But few things are needed — or indeed only one. Sometimes, that “one thing” could be as literal as a single simple dish. There’s a time and place for lavish preparation, especially for those who genuinely enjoy it. But Jesus’ gentle correction to Martha reminds us that all these good efforts must never take away from the truly necessary thing — the Word of God, the Bread of Life, which sustains us forever.

And in our own church family, I believe this “one thing” is exactly what we need most right now: connection. In a large congregation, it’s easy to be surrounded by people and yet feel isolated. Home groups have been tried, but interest has been low. Meanwhile, people around us are  full of shifting beliefs, confusing voices, and spiritual half-truths. Many will never go directly to the pastor with their doubts or struggles. That’s why we — brothers and sisters in Christ — are called to exhort one another daily, while it is called Today  Heb 3:13, so that no one among us grows cold or drifts away into sin, deception or fall away from faith.
 
We must leave the status quo and step outside the comfort zone. Invite someone you see in church for a simple cup of tea, connect with the person sitting next to you, offer prayer or pray for each other,  encouraged by the word of God. Talk through this or similar devotional topics. This is how we “choose the good portion” — by making space for Christ in the middle of our relationships, service and busy life.

So let us open our hearts to fellowship, prioritizing one thing that is needed, holding on to the wisdom of Proverbs: Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife Prov. 17:1. Or as Proverbs 15:17 says, Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred — and we might add: with frustration, anxiety, or emptiness.

When we gather, let’s keep our eyes on the One who is worth it all, and give Him the joy of our undivided attention — whether over a feast, or over a single steaming cup of tea.

(Based on Luke 10:42)

Purpose
To explore God’s call to prioritize meaningful connection with Him and one another, and to set expectations for fellowship that builds up the body of Christ.

Read & Reflect
Read these passages slowly. Underline or note what stands out to you about fellowship, hospitality, and spiritual focus.

1. Luke 10:38–42 — Martha & Mary: What is the “one thing” Jesus points to?
2. Hebrews 13:1–3, 16 — Love, hospitality, remembering those in need.
3. Hebrews 3:12–14 — Daily encouragement to guard against a hardened heart.
4. Acts 2:42–47 — The early church’s devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer.
5. Proverbs 17:1 & 15:17 — The value of peace and love over abundance without them.
6. Romans 12:9–13 — Love in action and practicing hospitality.
   
   

Reflection Questions:

• In Luke 10, what might have been distracting Martha from the “one thing”?
• Which verse above challenges your current approach to hospitality or fellowship the most?
• Do these Scriptures lean toward how much you prepare, or how you prepare your heart?
  
  

Discuss & Share (10–15 min)
If studying with family, a friend, or small group, talk through these questions:

1. Why do you think genuine fellowship can be difficult to prioritize in our busy culture?
2. What holds you back from inviting others into your home or life — fear, busyness, lack of resources?
3. What would “modest but meaningful” hospitality look like for you?
4. How can you make space for spiritual conversation during fellowship without making it feel forced?
5. What role can you play in creating a deeper connection in our church community?
   
   

Pray & Act (5–10 min)

1. Pray for God to give you both courage and creativity in hospitality.
2. Ask the Lord to show you one person you can invite for a simple fellowship this week.
3. Commit to including:
   • A shared Scripture reading (even one verse)
   • Prayer together before parting
4. Set an expectation: Fellowship is about connection, encouragement, and pointing each other toward Christ — not performance.
   
   

Memory Verse
“But few things are needed — or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” — Luke 10:42 (NIV)
Optional Extra Study:

• 1 Peter 4:8–10 — Love deeply, offer hospitality without grumbling.
• Galatians 6:2 — Carry each other’s burdens.
• Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 — The strength of walking together.