You are Distracted by Many Things

Sunday, July 20, 2025

The Rev. Dr. Ben Huelskamp (he/they)

Executive Director, LOVEboldly

Queer Christian

Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42)

Seventeen years ago, today, I was completing a summer internship at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Washington, DC. It was the summer between by sophomore and junior year of college and also the first summer after I came out as a Queer man. St. Alban’s, the historic parish church on the grounds of the National Cathedral, was a place of privilege, power, and wealth, that was also living into its call as an urban congregation. I had many experiences and learned many things for which I was neither expecting nor prepared. And on July 20, 2008, I stepped into the historic pulpit equally unprepared to deliver my first sermon ever.

Yes, I had written and rewritten that sermon. I had practiced giving it from the pulpit more times than most preachers have to rehearse all their sermons in a year.

During one of those rehearsals, the church’s director of finance dutifully listened and responded, “I feel like you have a lot to say.” Her words rang in my head and until the night before I preached. I had so much I wanted to say and I became distracted by all of those topics.

Sometimes it’s not just prudent, it’s better to focus on the task and stay out of the weeds. Martha was trying to do a good thing, but Mary focused on their guest. She chose to focus on Jesus.

Reflection

What distracts your attention?

What are the (many) things that you have to say?

Action

Make a list of what distracts you. What helps you remain present?