As many of you know, my Sunday message centered on the story of Christ’s visit to the home of Martha and Mary found in Luke 10:38-42. After the 11:05 a.m. Worship Service, Wayne Johnson posed an interesting question to me: Is there something missing from the story?
We know how Jesus responded to Martha in her moment of stress: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things, but only a few things are necessary, really one, for Mary has chosen the (more) beneficial part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
What prompted Wayne’s question is the fact that if Martha ended up joining Mary in choosing to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to his teaching, then somebody would have had to pick up the slack to finish the meal preparations. After all, they had a houseful of hungry disciples who had just finished a long journey to Bethany on foot! Did Lazarus (Martha and Mary’s father) help out with the preparations? Did Christ’s disciples join together to give Martha a break? If the men who were present actually did some cooking, that would have been a pretty groundbreaking development.
Wayne’s question underscores that truth that while Mary chose the better part, Martha’s contribution of hospitable service was also very important. A life of discipleship includes learning, loving service, rest, and friendship with God. If other people are going to find rest and refreshment in Christ, then I need to take my turn at service. The old saying, “If you want something done, then ask a busy person,” implies that some people are not busy enough!
One more thought: If all people are going to have the opportunity to find rest and refreshment in God’s presence and Word, then justice is required in terms of employment practices and fair pay for the work that is done. For example, forced or unpaid overtime denies employees their turn for contemplation and meditation. Practical decisions always carry spiritual consequences.
May God bless and guide you in finding the right balance among work, rest, service, study, and justice as you grow in your friendship with God!
-- Thomas
Ahhh...I thought there must be more to the story. Martha's role is also an important one. Blessed are those who serve others! Finding the right balance is the key. Thank you Thomas.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jeanie! I agree! Blessed indeed are those who serve others and maintain that balance! God bless you!
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