How Preparation Becomes a Distraction | Echo | Reverend Keith Reed II

About this sermon

This dynamic and relatable message challenges us to examine how even good things—like preparation, productivity, and serving—can become distractions when they pull us away from the presence of God. Centered on Luke 10:38–42, the story of Mary and Martha reveals a powerful tension between being busy for God and being with God. Martha was doing what seemed right—serving, preparing, and creating an environment of excellence. Yet, in her busyness, she became distracted, overwhelmed, and frustrated. Meanwhile, Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus, prioritizing His presence over performance. The message makes it clear: preparation is necessary, but when our perspective shifts from purpose to performance, it can lead us away from what matters most. We are reminded that it’s possible to be active in church, serving others, and doing “good works,” yet still be spiritually distant. When our focus becomes distorted, we begin to rely on our own understanding, seek validation through performance, and even attempt to “police” God’s response to our efforts. This leads to worry, comparison, and frustration. Jesus’ response to Martha reveals the deeper issue—it wasn’t the work, it was her worry and misplaced focus. Mary chose what was better: intimacy with Christ. In a world full of noise, responsibilities, and constant movement, this message calls us back to the feet of Jesus—to listen, to receive, and to be filled before we pour out. Too much of a good thing can become a bad thing when it takes us away from the best thing. The question is: are we so busy doing for God that we’ve stopped being with Him? Luke 10:38-42 Matthew 14:28-30 Hebrews 12:1-2 Colossians 3:23 Proverbs 3:5-6 Philippians 4:6-7 1 Peter 5:7 #PreparationVsDistraction #FeedYourFocus #FaithOverFeelings #SitAtHisFeet #Luke10 #SpiritualDiscipline #KingdomMindset #EchoService #SBCPhilly #SharonBaptistChurch Give Online: thesbc.org/giving Text to Give: Text “GIVE” + amount to 610-379-3818 Mail: 3955 Conshohocken Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131 Follow us: Website: thesbc.org Facebook: Sharon Baptist Church Instagram: @thesbcphilly YouTube: Sharon Baptist Church Philly