A low hiss of frustration might have escaped Martha’s lips as she glanced across the room, taking in her sister’s almost worshipful appearance as she leaned in to hear each of the Rabbi’s words.
Didn’t Mary realize there was work to be done? Dough to be shaped. Place settings arranged. Water to be drawn. Yet, Mary sat. It was Martha who rushed about preparing a meal for Jesus and the disciples who had traveled with him from Jerusalem. It was Martha who filled mugs as quickly as they were emptied. Martha who met the needs of the each guest.
Her flushed cheeks and quick movements became more pronounced as Mary lingered ever longer at Jesus’ feet.
Hospitable and servant-minded, Martha’s penchant for detail overcame the desire to give of her time. Share from the heart. Overwhelmed by the details of presentation and preparation, Martha reverted to accusation.
“Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” (Luke 10:40)
Christ’s words gently rebuked.
Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:41)
Turning kind, penetrating eyes her direction she knew he recognized the selfishness of her request. Realized her motive. Understood and still loved.
She, too, loved the Lord but had forgotten, or not yet learned, that Christ prefers worship to works. Martha’s personalized list of do’s and don’ts, designed to prove her worth or express her commitment paled in comparison to the simple act of resting in the company of Christ. Soaking in the words of the Bread of Life rather than fretting over one task and then another in an effort to serve the Imperishable the perishable.
One thing is necessary, friend. All of our fretting, worrying and doing fail to lead us closer to Christ. Instead, our fulfillment comes at His feet in moments of worshipful stillness when our hearts are bent toward the God who requires no more than us.
May we have the wisdom to set aside the temporary for the eternal each day and discover Jesus afresh as we absorb the Living Word.
 
Blessings,
Tammy

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Also sharing at: Blessed but Stressed, God Sized Dreams