Mark Sorensen One thing I do: Forgetting what’s behind and straining towards what’s ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 3:13-14
There’s a great line in the movie City Slickers starring Billy Crystal and Jack Palance. In the movie, a grumpy old cowboy named Curly tells Crystal’s character that the meaning of life is found in just one thing. “You stick to that, and the rest don’t matter.” There’s a pause in the dialogue and Crystal asks, “What’s the one thing?” Curly’s response? “You’ll just have to figure that out for yourself.” (That’s the G rated version;)
Interesting that Paul uses the phrase, “one thing” to the church of Philippi. Paul says that the one thing necessary is this: not being held by the past and keeping God’s calling on our lives in sight, we simply press on. That’s good wisdom, right? However, have you stopped to search out other passages of the “one thing” found in scripture?
Take a look.
- For David, the one thing was worship. One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. (Psalm 27:4)
- When the rich, young ruler thought his identity was in his stuff, Jesus replied, “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Mark 10:21)
- To the blind man being questioned about Jesus healing him on the sabbath, his response was this: Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see! (John 9:25)
- To Martha busy cleaning and working in the house while Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, Jesus had these words to say: 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)
- To the apostle Peter, what mattered was this: But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. (2 Peter 3:8)
I love the wisdom found in God’s Word. To worship at the feet of the Lord, to make Him a priority in our lives, to tell what He has done, to keep our eyes focused on Christ’s return? Is there nothing more important? Today, my friend, may you rest in what’s important.
May we ALL do the one thing well.
