“And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42
Have you ever had company arrive at your door unexpectedly and been overwhelmed? You rush around, trying to tidy up the house and at the same time welcome your guests. So many things go through your mind. Have they had lunch? If not, what can I prepare in a hurry?
Imagine how Mary and Martha felt when Jesus and His disciples arrived at their home. The girls scurried around, making sure that there was a place for them all to sit down and rest. Martha checked her cupboards to see what was available to provide a meal. As she turned around from pulling things out, she noticed that Mary was missing. Where could she be? And then, she checked the other room only to find her sister sitting on the floor at Jesus’ feet, attentive to His every word.
It was customary in that day for a disciple to sit at the feet of the Rabbi, listening to their teaching. By allowing Mary to do so, Jesus is recognizing her as a disciple. He had no objection to her being there and praised her for it.
I can remember times when I became frustrated because I was so busy, and others did not seem to be doing their share. I probably expressed my feelings in a way that was not good. So, I can sympathize with Martha. She must have regretted the words that she spoke to Jesus, when He spoke kindly to her, letting her know that she had a choice. He appreciated her willingness to serve them, but Mary had made a better choice. They both could have listened to His teaching and then both ministered to His physical needs.
Jesus loved Martha and Mary equally. Each one was giving their best to Him. Practical ministry and devotion are both necessary in the Kingdom of the Lord. As women who love the Lord, we must strike the right balance. There is a time to serve others, but there is also a time to sit at His feet and learn of Him.
Matthew 11:28-30 : “Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” The Message
It’s all right to be a Martha, there is much to do in the service of the Lord. But we must not forget to take time as Mary did, sit at Jesus’ feet, and learn from His teachings. When we choose to draw close to Jesus, He will bless our service to Him.
Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, that in this story you showed us the need to spend time with You, by reading Your word, and communicating with You.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
