World’s Fastest Walkers
She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. —Luke 10:39
According to a study measuring the pace of life in cities in 32 countries, people in Singapore are in the biggest hurry. We take 10:55 seconds to cover 20 metres, compared to 12:00 seconds for New Yorkers and 31:60 seconds for those living in the African city of Blantyre in Malawi.
Interestingly, the study also showed that walking speeds have increased overall by an average of 10 percent over the past 20 years. If our walking speed is any indicator of our pace of life, then we are much busier than before.
Are you caught up in the frenzy of a busy life? Pause and consider Jesus’ words to 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” (Luke 10:41–42).
Notice Jesus’ gentle words. He didn’t rebuke Martha for wanting to be a good host; rather, He reminded her about her priorities. Martha had allowed the necessary to get out of proportion. In the process, she became so busy doing good that she didn’t take time to sit at Jesus’ feet.
In our drive to be productive for the Lord, let’s remember the one thing that is worth being concerned about—enjoying time with our Saviour.
About the author
Chia Poh Fang serves with Our Daily Bread Ministries at the Singapore office as Director of the English Content Development Team. She is also a regular contributor to Our Daily Bread. She enjoys exploring Scripture and finding passages that bring a fresh viewpoint, answer a question that’s burning in her mind, or deal with a life issue she’s facing.
