Don’t Miss the Moment

There are some Bible stories that really give us trouble. Different stories for different people for different reasons.

Take this Mary and Martha story, for example. It’s a short one, but that little paragraph won’t leave me alone.

Scripture doesn’t tell us how they came to know of Jesus, but the sisters are honoured to accept him into Martha’s home (v 38). Mary sits at his feet like the male disciples, soaking up anything Jesus says (v 39). This was unusual, given the status of women in that society (but it was typical of the way Jesus treated women). Martha is flustered, trying to be a good woman and a good hostess. Jesus has at least 12 disciples with him, and probably a crowd of other followers. That’s a lot of guests to be fed and cared for.

It is understandable that she would want to give Jesus her best. It is also understandable that she would want her sister to help (v 40). I would in her situation.

“Martha, Martha, 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” (vv 41-42). We don’t know how Martha responded when Jesus refused to make Mary help out.

But we know Jesus was not condemning her. Elsewhere, scripture explicitly states that Jesus loves Martha (John 11:5) … and Mary and their brother Lazarus too. He is gently rebuking her because he loves her.

There is work to do—true. But Jesus doesn’t want her to be worried and upset. Do the work, just don’t miss the moment … and the blessings right under your nose.

This is the hard part for Martha and for me. For many of us, I suspect.

Respond in Prayer

Dear Father in Heaven, You are the most patient. Your kindness knows no bounds. We thank you for your gentle teaching and pray that you will help us each to see you clearly throughout the busyness of our lives. In Christ’s precious name, Amen.

Jo Lynn Duck

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).