Begin with two minutes of silence and stillness before God.
Growing up in church, I've heard the story of Mary and Martha many times. Even as a child in elementary school, I knew I related much more closely to Martha in this story. Type A. Perfectionist. Busy. Fast-paced. When I read the story now, I know exactly what Martha’s frustration must have felt like. And even though I’ve heard the story so many times and know how it ends, I completely understand her annoyance with Mary, and Jesus’ response still feels like somewhat of a gut punch.
I used to see this story as Mary versus Martha, with Mary being the hero and Martha being the villain. That Martha was at her essence an uptight mess, and Mary was a gentle spirit. But it’s not a matter of right versus wrong. It’s not a matter of a difference in personality types. It’s a matter of where our priorities are.
When reading this passage today, this phrase in verse 40 stands out to me: “Martha was distracted with much serving.” She has pulled away from sitting at Jesus’ feet by the busyness going on in the kitchen. The enemy in this story isn’t Martha, and it isn’t doing work. It’s the distractions and anxiety that pull us away from spending time with Jesus. It’s the things prioritized over time spent with God.
Re-reading this story has caused me to see Mary in a totally different light, as well. It’s not that she’s lazy or nonchalant. It’s not that she was selfish. Rather, she’s content and at peace sitting at the feet of Jesus; her heart and mind not being pulled away by the superficial things of the world. She understands that before doing things for Jesus, she has to be with Him.
When Jesus responds to Martha in verses 41 and 42, saying, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” If I replace Martha’s name with my own in this verse, it makes me realize how many times I have cared far too much about the trivial things I’m doing, especially when compared to listening to the words of Jesus.
Just like Martha, so many things form distractions and anxiety in my life – work, family, friends, accomplishments, and even church! - and while all of these things are good, they can quickly become idols that will never fulfill me and will eventually fade away. Instead, I am seeking to spend more time sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening and submitting to the Word of God. A good portion that will never be taken away.
Take two minutes to reflect in silence.
Reflection:
- What are some distractions/anxieties in your life right now that are pulling you away from sitting at the feet of Jesus?
- How can you prioritize spending time with God over this next week?