Matthew Poole and continuators on Luke 10:42

42 But one thing is needful. And Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

Our Saviour plainly blameth Martha, for her too great sollicitude, and trouble to provide a Dinner, or Supper for him, who had Meat to eat which she was not aware of, it being his Meat and Drink to do the Will of his Father, and to Preach the Gospel. Interpreters much trouble themselves, in determining what that one thing is, which our Saviour here saith is needful. Some think our Saviour meaneth no more then one dish is enough, but this certainly is too low a sense. Others would have this one thing, to be a Life of Meditation and Contemplation, and that this was that good part Mary had chosen. If Mary had thus spent her whole Life, they might have said something for this. But certainly Marys chusing to take advantage of Christs company, rather to spend an hour or two in hearing of him, then in preparing a Supper for him, will prove no such thing. I should Interprete it generally, concerning the care of the Soul with reference to eternity. That is certainly the one thing necessary, that was the better part, which Mary had chosen, as to which Christ would not discourage her, nor any way blunt the edge of those holy desires, he had kindled in her, an effect of which study and care, was her sitting at the Feet of Christ, to hear his Word.

Marginal references: Psal. 27.4.