There’s a story in Luke of Jesus in Bethany at the home of Mary and Martha and their brother Lazuras. Mary was the quiet, contemplative type while Martha was the grab-the-bull-by the horns, assertive type. Mary was sitting at the feet of Jesus listening to every word He had to say. Martha was in the kitchen cooking up a storm until she couldn’t contain herself any longer. She came out of the kitchen, looked down at Mary and then Jesus and said in Luke 10:40, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to You that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” (NLT)
There was a time in my life when I related to Martha. It didn’t seem fair that I worked so hard while I thought some others were slacking off in the ministry. As I’ve become older, I’ve become more like Mary and I’m finding that I enjoy life a lot more plus listening comes easier. Listen to what Jesus said in verses 41-42, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details. There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” (NLT)
Our culture says busier is better. But if we get consumed by the desire to accomplish things, we run the risk of offering activity instead of adoration, work instead of worship, and perspiration instead of inspiration. Let’s embrace the Mary and the Martha in our life and take the time to listen as we work.
In Christ,
Rev. David Edgar
Discover more from Trinity United Methodist Church
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.