“Mary has chosen the better part[.]” (Luke 10:42)

Jesus has said, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” (Mark 22:14)

It may seem that “chosen” implies being passive, but there is an active element in it. Jesus was saying that Mary has “chosen” the better part.

Nevertheless, though God calls, He cannot do anything if people do not respond. The story of the rich young man is a good example for this. (Mark 19:16-22)

Jesus also used the parable of the wedding banquet to show how people downplay God’s call:

Some went to their farms, some to their businesses, and some even maltreated and killed the king’s slaves.

Eventually, the king’s slaves invited everyone to go, “both good and bad” (Matt 22:10). Somehow, there was a man “who was not wearing a wedding robe (Matt 22:11); this shows that a lack of respect to God’s call.

Of course, God is kind and loving. He has given us complete freedom. However, we cannot make light of it.

Because our lives come from God, nothing can replace God’s importance in us.

Only those who follow God with all their hearts can be filled with happiness. “Mary has chosen the better part[.]”