“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.” – Luke 10:38-39, NIV
While Mary sat, Martha stewed. She marched around the kitchen, gathering the ingredients for the lavish feast she was preparing.
She muttered under her breath. How was it that no one could see what was happening? She was being overlooked. It just wasn’t fair!
So, Martha gathered all of her self-righteous anger and stormed over to where Jesus was reclining. “Jesus, tell my sister to come help! It’s not right that all of the work should fall on my shoulders.”
The look Jesus sent her way was filled with compassion, “Martha, Martha,” He chided softly. “Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42)
Martha was doing a good thing, but she was doing it for the wrong reasons. She wanted to create the perfect dinner. Her sister, Mary, chose to embrace the presence of Jesus, rather than perfection of a party.
Can you relate? Have you ever prioritized your to-do list instead of soaking in the presence of Jesus?
Prayer:
God, when I’m tempted to rush around, let me remember to pause in the presence of Jesus. I want to focus on the important before I focus on the urgent. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
