“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.”” NIV
When Martha complains to Jesus about her sister’s lack of help, Jesus gently corrects her and points out that Mary has chosen the better way. This reminds us that being in the presence of Jesus and learning from Him directly is invaluable. It emphasizes the importance of seeking spiritual growth and understanding through studying His teachings and spending time with Him in prayer and meditation.
As I was doing some study for this week’s devotional, I came upon a book called “Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World” by Joanna Weaver. I really like one of the things she said about this verse:
“The thing we need to understand is that God did not choose to ‘use’ us. We are not spiritual Oompa-Loopmas in some cosmic chocolate factory working day and night to churn out a smoother, better-tasting Christianity. We were not created to fill some egotistical need God has for praise — the angels forever encircle His throne with worship. We are not some celestial science project; laboratory mice let loose to see how they interact. No, the Bible makes it clear that God created us because He longs to have fellowship with us. Our Father longs to pour His very life into us, to give us an inheritance and a share in His divine nature. What does God desire? It is actually very simple. He wants you. All of you.””
What does this story from Luke mean to you? Do you think Joanna has it right?
Pray: Father God, thank you for Mary of Bethany and the example she set for us. Please help me retain what I learned about her and my own walk with Jesus this week. As I retain what I learned, give me the wisdom and strength to act on Your prompting in my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen
