There is need of only one thing. ~Luke 10:41
The Lenten 40, Day 14
Reflecting on Martha and Mary and their respective approaches to Jesus continues to be a wake-up call for me. Try as I might, I still lean heavily on the side of Martha-ness.
Most of us are familiar with the story: Martha and Mary are sisters who Jesus visits. Mary sits at the feet of Jesus, enjoying His company, while Martha busies herself with kitchen duties – and gripes that her sister isn’t helping.
Jesus tells Martha that Mary has chosen what is important. Scripture doesn’t mention her reaction to His words, but I could imagine that Martha’s initial response would be one of surprise.
How could Jesus not appreciate all of her hospitality? She had spent hours cleaning and cooking for Him! And there is Mary, sitting still, oblivious to the fact that Martha would have welcomed a little assistance.
Like Martha, I do enjoy entertaining. But it is easy to get caught up in the details and overlook what is really important – simply enjoying the company of your guests. Over the years, God has helped me become much more relaxed about hosting.
But, embarrassingly, I have had occasional Martha moments, feeling resentful about being the one stuck in the kitchen when I would rather be relaxing and socializing. (Please forgive me, Lord.)
God so wants more Mary time with me – and of late, I have a greater desire to be with Him.
Centering Prayer gives me the pleasure of sitting at Jesus’ feet, doing nothing other than soaking in His presence.
Today we were asked to imagine what Jesus might say to us while we were with Him. What I heard was, “Rest in Me more….Busy yourself less”.
Dear Lord, I keep trying. Thank you for continuing to remind me that my “doing” is not as important as my “being”.
I think that our inner Martha-ism will never stop vying for our attention; but, God will always keep stirring the idea that Mary-ness is what He truly values.
Hopefully, our great divide will point us more in Mary’s direction.
Today’s Lectio: Luke 10:38-42
My Word – DISTRACTED My Phrase – SAT AT THE LORD’S FEET LISTENING TO WHAT HE SAID
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Weekend Links
The Lenten 40, Day 15
Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me! ~Luke 18:38
Today’s Lectio – Luke 18:35-43
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The Lenten 40, Day 16
Blessed are the pure of heart, for they will see God. ~Matthew 5:8
Today’s Lectio – Matthew 5:3–10
beWARM 
Um, let’s not forget your other “Martha” moments – ones you should be very proud of ! – but this post is great! As you know weve been feeling this way for years – we love you in all of your ways, every day, though.
Xoxo
And I love all of you just the same…always and forever!
Thank you, Toni!
“All else follows from receiving my love. If you are truly a Mary, then when it’s time to be Martha, you will go about your duties in the kitchen with a heart like Mary.” Or similar words from him. I can be a Martha with a chip on my shoulder or a Martha with Mary’s heart. And I get to have permission to be Mary, yay! All around totally convicting and inspiring.
Thank you for your thought provoking words, Mary Jane!