We continue our series of how Jesus interacted with the women he encountered and how he both met their deepest need and gave them honor. He honored the Woman at the Well by granting her the privilege of being the first to know that the Messiah had arrived (John 4:1-42) The trust that Jesus showed her (we can assume) raised her status in the village. This allowed her to regain the dignity she had lost.
The Woman With an Issue of Blood took a daring step in touching the hem of Jesus’ garment. That act could have led to her death by stoning. At the very least, she could expect a strong public reprimand. Instead, Jesus honored her faith and healed her (Matthew 9:20-22) Next is Martha (of Martha and Mary) She will be our subject today.
Scripture Reading: Luke 10:38-42
“Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary which also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou are careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen the good part, which shall not be taken from her.”
Jesus visits Mary and Martha at Bethany. By all accounts found within the pages of the Bible, it can be assumed that Mary, Martha and Lazarus were treasured friends of Jesus. While she is bustling about the kitchen, her sister is sitting at Jesus’ feet and listening to his word. Notice how she addresses the Messiah. She begins her complaint with an accusation, accusing Jesus of not caring about her dilemma. She wants justice.
Instead of justice, Jesus draws Martha’s attention to the eternal vs the temporary tasks of the day. He doesn’t scold. He tenderly addresses her, “Martha, Martha.” He validates her efforts saying that she is “careful.” Then, he focusses on the root of the problem-that she is “troubled about many things.” He directs her attention to the eternal by telling her that one thing is needed and that Mary made the right choice. Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet and learn of him. It’s his word and teaching that will last.
Most of us would probably identify with Martha over Mary. Our lives are driven by many distractions. We feel pressured to perform at our job. At the same time, the house has to be cleaned and there’s laundry to do. Somehow, it seems that sitting at Jesus’ feet does not have the same urgency as the ‘immediate’. Yet, it’s only by spending time with our Lord, that we are transformed. What we learn from hearing his voice and studying his word is ours to keep-even into eternity.
A Prayer: Lord, forgive us for not making you our priority. Help us to comprehend how valuable is our time with you. Give us a hunger for your word and for your presence.
We Ask in Jesus’ Name.
