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As the calendar turns to November, once again the story of Mary and Martha speaks.

“Now as they went on their way,
Jesus entered a village.
And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house.
And she had a sister called Mary,
who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching.
But Martha was distracted with much serving.
And she went up to him and said,
‘Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone?
Tell her to help me.’
But the Lord answered her,
‘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 from her.'”
Luke 10:38-42

Three players: Jesus, Martha, Mary.
Three contrasts: But, But, but.
One application.

Jesus knew his identity; he recognized the ripe teaching moment. He was gentle with Martha, Martha, Martha. I picture Jesus saying her name softly, invitingly showing care. He also affirmed Mary. Contrary to the culture of the time, Jesus welcomed women learning as well as men.

Martha had the gift of hospitality. She welcomed Jesus into her home. And immediately wanted to serve him, presumably a meal. Martha found herself abandoned and alone. She was focused on her gift instead of the giver. Even our gifts can be mis-used when put ahead of the giver. Martha was distracted. She also recognized Jesus had the ability to change the circumstance she found herself in. Tell her then to help me.

Mary sits and listens. She recognized Jesus and knew he was worth listening to. Jesus highlights her choice.

The scriptures highlight three contrasts:
Mary sat but Martha was distracted with doing.
Martha’s request and Jesus’s response.
The many things and the one thing.

Mary Z. & me.
Our husbands were there too.

We’re coming off a busy and wonderful season of travel and lots of people. I love connecting with new and old friends.

I wouldn’t characterize myself as a Martha this past month. And I definitely wouldn’t characterize myself as a Mary. I missed my Mary times.

I’m left with a yearning and a decision. The holidays can also be very people-full busy times.

That’s okay. Like you (I imagine) I’m looking forward to November and December. And I need to remember, “My daily decisions become the mechanism of translating my holy intention into holy living.” The One True Thing, Howard Baker.

I hear the choice in front of me. Let the busyness of the season lead to loneliness in my friendship with God. Or preserve time in the midst to enjoy the one who calls me his friend and defeats the loneliness of busyness. How will you choose?
“You are my friends … I have called you friends.” John 15:14, 15.

“but one thing is necessary.
Mary has chosen the good portion,”
Luke 10:42

Copyright: Sue Tell, October 2024

Available at your favorite bookseller November 12, 2024