Luke 10:38-42

Luke 10:38-42

And in His traveling, it became that He came into a village.  And some woman – Martha by name – received Him into the house.  And to this woman was a sister named Mary, who after sitting down by the feet of the Lord also was listening to His words.  And Martha was being driven by a great amount of service.  And after standing beside Him she said, “Do you not care that my sister left me alone to serve?  Therefore, speak to hear into order that she should help me!”  And answering, the Lord said to her, “You are anxious and you are being troubled regarding many things.  But there is one need.  For Mary chose the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

When we look at this story, we are meant to see contrast.  We have Mary, who likes to listen and learn.  We have Martha, who likes to serve.  Yet both are welcome in the presence of the Lord.  So often we hear about the good of Mary and the poor choice of Martha.  But before we get there, we need to remember that both women are acceptable in the presence of the Lord.  Jesus welcomes all different kinds of people into His presence.

Do you ever feel as though you have unacceptable parts within your character?  Why is it important to remember that Jesus accepts any of us into His presence?

Second Thought:

Let’s now look at Martha.  Look at the first comment that is made about her.  She received the Lord into her house.  This is a strong note on service.  This encounter with the Lord happens because she is willing to serve.  Her service is not a bad choice.  Her service leads her into the presence of the Lord.  However, where she goes wrong is that she chooses service over listening to the Lord.  This is an important lesson.  So often we get something into our mind and determine that it is how God wants us to do ministry.  Instead, we need to take the time to abide in His presence and listen to His will so that we are truly following Him.

Do you ever put the cart before the horse and served in a way you want without really listening to the Lord?  How do you stop and listen to God as you abide?

Third Thought:

Finally we turn to Martha.  Look at how she behaves.  Mary sits at the feet of Jesus.  When Jesus teaches, she is ready to listen.  This doesn’t mean that Mary doesn’t serve.  Mary simply knows when to serve and when to listen.  There most certainly is a time for both.  The key is learning to know the difference.

When have you had a fulfilling moment of listening to the Lord?  How does taking the time to listen help you regain energy, strength, focus, and even confidence?

Passage for Tomorrow: Luke 11:1-4