CONNECTING POINT: And the Award Goes to...

In today’s column, I want to introduce you to two sisters, Martha and Mary, also sisters of Lazarus. Most readers are familiar with their life stories, whereas many are unfamiliar with some of the cultural backgrounds involved in these ladies’ lives. Luke gives us a glimpse.

“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’ ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’” (Luke 10:38-42).

Martha certainly deserved the Hostest of the Mostest Award, and Mary fittingly could have received the Student of the Year Award. We tend to view Martha more in a negative light but doing so could be a bit misguided. In previous chapters of Luke, Jesus spoke directly to His disciples about finding homes where they were welcomed and treated with hospitality. Jewish culture had a high expectation of hospitality, and that social designation fell mainly on women. Martha was doing something kind and genuine; she even heeded Christ’s teaching by serving. Two aspects of discipleship are seen in these sisters, Martha diligently serving and Mary intently listening, which are both important. The main principle is that Jesus understands we can get distracted, but we should rest from serving at times so that we can listen and learn to be refreshed. Notice how Jesus gracefully addressed Martha’s concerns. He didn’t accuse her of wrongdoing, He recognized her anxiety and invited her to sit, listen, and learn.

Is it possible for us to stay stuck in either the “Martha mode” or even the “Mary mode?” I believe so. The following points are worth considering:

One: Know the difference between what is good and what is best. In the case of Martha and Mary, this isn’t a matter of right and wrong, both qualities of serving and learning are right. Moments in life will arise when we need to adjust or prioritize aspects of being Christ’s disciples. Even servants need to rest and take time to learn or train. As a follower of Jesus, it would be unbalanced to only “sit” at the feet of the Savior and neglect service.

Two: Identify those anxieties that put up roadblocks in relationships. Martha was overwhelmed, and at that moment, she became a bit indignant or frustrated with Mary. Worry or anxiety is not sinful, however, Martha’s expectations of Mary could have created a wedge in their relationship. Jesus helped Martha to refocus on what was important, Him. “…you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.” The Great I Am, the Alpha and Omega, the Prince of Peace, is ever-present.

Three: Make room for the Savior. Christ’s disciples and followers had a vantage point that we don’t share today, their teacher was present, and class was in session for them 24/7 as they experienced life together. As a means of encouragement, it’s notable to understand that Jesus is unlike any rabbi or teacher, He promised to be “with us always” (Matthew 28), He is the eternal priest (Hebrews 7), and He is the Word made flesh (John 1). Jesus also said the “comforter” would be present which is the Holy Spirit.

Wherever you find yourself, trust Jesus, He knows us well.