INTRODUCTION
The story of Martha and Mary is well-known to many, but for those who are new to it, I encourage you to read Luke 10:38-42. This passage offers profound insights, especially Jesus’ teaching on what is truly important and everlasting.
Word of God
Reading the Word of God multiple times is common, but if we merely skim over it and miss the transformative details, we miss its true value. We might think, “I know the story of The Good Samaritan, Jesus, or Martha and Mary,” and feel like we’ve grasped it all. However, this mindset indicates a lack of true understanding.
The truth is, God’s Word is always new
When we Revisit a Bible story or verse after some time can feel like a fresh experience. It’s not that we’ve forgotten it, but rather, God offers us new insights & a fresh perspective each time. This renewal happens because we are viewing scripture through the evolving lens that God provides.
To truly understand the Word of God
We need to study it carefully and deliberately. This means focusing our attention and striving to understand it from God’s perspective, not just our own. God speaks to us in many ways, and we need to be open to His voice.
Let’s dive deep into the Word of God, seeking to uncover what God is revealing, what Jesus is teaching, and how the Holy Spirit is working within us. As we study, let’s commit to obeying and applying the Word in our lives, allowing it to bring about real transformation.
Martha
When we look at Luke 10:38-42, we are introduced to Martha, a woman from Bethany, who plays a significant role in the story of Jesus’ ministry. This passage provides us with a profound lesson on priorities, hospitality, and the essence of true discipleship.
Welcoming Jesus
Moreover from verse 38, we learn that Jesus and His disciples were traveling and came to a village where Martha welcomed Him into her home. Although some translations specify that they were on their way to Jerusalem, the exact destination isn’t the focus here. Jesus always had a purpose and a plan, never wasting a moment, as He was constantly about His Father’s business. His visit to Martha and Mary was no accident.
bible verse
Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come and eat with that person, and they with me.
The key takeaway is Martha’s act of opening her home to Jesus. This reflects her hospitality and readiness to serve. Jesus has a purpose for each of us, but we must invite Him into our lives to dwell within us and guide us.
The Distraction of Service
From verse 40, Martha becomes distracted by all the preparations needed to host Jesus and His followers. The New King James Version even uses the phrase “much serving.” Martha’s focus on serving is commendable, but it leads her to neglect the opportunity to sit with Jesus and listen to His teachings.
This scenario is relatable to many of us. In our busy lives, we often become consumed with tasks and responsibilities, neglecting to take time for ourselves and our relationship with God. We can learn from Martha’s experience that while serving is important, it should not come at the expense of our spiritual nourishment.
bible verse
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Seeking Help from Jesus
We can see in the same verse, Martha approaches Jesus and says, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” She felt alone and burdened by her tasks and her belief that Jesus can resolve her problem.
MARTHA’S FEELINGS
Martha’s feelings of isolation and her cry for help mirror our own struggles. We often seek approval and assistance from others, forgetting that God is always with us. The song “Way Maker” beautifully expresses this truth: “Even when I don’t see it, You’re working Even when I can’t feel it, You’re working You never stop, You never stop working”.
POINTS TO BE NOTED
- Our God is always active, even when we don’t realize it.
- Immaturity is Questioning God
- Maturity is Understanding God
bible verse
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:1-8
(God is our Help & watches over you) In Verse 4, Indeed He who watches over Israel will neither Slumber nor Sleep. We also need to understand that our aid does not come from others, but rather from God alone. You may believe that this individual has assisted you in this particular matter; nevertheless, who sent you the assistance? God is the only one. Luke 2:52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.
Jesus’ Response
for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
In verse 41, Jesus responds tenderly, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things.” His repetition of her name indicates His deep care and desire to calm her. Jesus acknowledges her anxiety but gently redirects her focus.
Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.
The One Thing Needed
In verse 42, Jesus continues, “But few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Here, Jesus highlights that while Martha’s service is valuable, the most important thing is to be present with Him. Mary’s choice to sit and listen to Jesus is praised as the better part, something that transcends all other duties.
bible verse
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.
five loaves and two fish
This passage underscores the necessity of spiritual nourishment. Jesus, who miraculously fed 5,000 people with five loaves and two fish, emphasizes that spiritual food is paramount. God, our Jehovah Jireh, provides for our every need in His perfect timing.
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Conclusion
Martha’s story teaches us that while service and hospitality are important, they should not overshadow our time with God.
MARY
Mary of Bethany, the younger sister of Martha and Lazarus, is a significant figure in the Gospels, appearing in Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-4, Luke 10:39, 42, and John 11:1-33, 12:2-8. Through these passages, we learn about her character and the lessons God reveals through her actions and choices.
Luke 10:39
We find Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus, listening to His words. This scene showcases her humility, as she places herself in a position of learning and submission. By choosing to sit and listen rather than assist her sister Martha with household tasks, Mary demonstrates her prioritization of spiritual nourishment over daily duties. Her focus is solely on Jesus, showing a deep desire to absorb His teachings without distraction.
highlights Mary's Peace and Trust
This scene also highlights Mary’s peace and trust. By choosing to listen rather than work, Mary demonstrates her confidence that Jesus will provide for their needs. She is not anxious about the practical concerns but is at peace, knowing that being in Jesus’ presence is the most important thing. This peace stems from her trust in Jesus, recognizing Him as the key to her help and the source of true wisdom and guidance.
MARY'S CONCERN
In this moment, Mary’s concern is not with worldly matters but with the divine. She is fully aware that Jesus holds the answers to life’s deepest questions and challenges. This awareness and trust lead her to welcome Jesus not just into her home but into her heart, illustrating a deep, personal relationship with Him.
Luke 10:42
Jesus commends Mary for choosing the “better part,” affirming that her choice to focus on Him will not be taken away from her. This endorsement highlights the eternal value of prioritizing a relationship with Jesus above all else.
APPEARANCE OF MARY
Mary appears again in the Gospels during significant moments, such as anointing Jesus with oil and being present when Jesus raises her brother Lazarus from the dead. These instances further illuminate her character. Her act of anointing Jesus, despite criticism, shows her devotion and understanding of His impending sacrifice. Jesus’ defence of Mary against Judas’ rebuke affirms that her actions were divinely inspired and deeply meaningful.
Conclusion
Through Mary’s example, we learn the importance of humility, focus, and trust in Jesus. Her actions reflect a heart fully devoted to God, one that prioritizes divine over worldly concerns. Mary’s story invites us to examine how we worship and follow God, urging us to embrace a heart of devotion and submission.
MARTHA & MARY
Balancing Worship and Service : A Journey of Spiritual Fulfillment
In life, we are often drawn to two significant aspects: worship and service. Each day, regardless of our age, we engage in various forms of service. But it’s crucial to ponder: what kind of service are we offering? Are we seeking to please people or God? To whom are we prioritizing our time? Worldly service often robs us of peace and joy, while service to God fills us with love and contentment.
The Source of Every Good Gift
All good and perfect gifts come from God. He provides according to our needs, desiring to be our Father. He is already present in various aspects of our lives, fulfilling our needs according to His eternal character. Therefore, our first priority should be to worship Him. In His presence, we find solace and understanding. He knows our needs even before we articulate them. Pour out your heart to Him, praise His name, thank Him for His blessings, and confess your sins. Trust in His promises, knowing that He works all things for our good.
Learning from the Divine Teacher
Just as we learned how to live after birth, we must be taught the right way to live by God. We cannot navigate life alone or earn our way to heaven. Jesus Christ, our Savior, came to cleanse our sins and restore our relationship with the Heavenly Father. We belong to His kingdom, and Jesus serves as our model. Therefore, it’s imperative to learn from God and apply His teachings in our lives.
Choosing the Right Path
Jesus praised Mary for choosing the right path— one that cannot be taken away. Similarly, we must sow God’s word in our hearts. It’s not enough to merely perform acts of service; we must prioritize worship and spiritual growth. Only then can our service be truly meaningful and impactful.
Conclusion
Balancing worship and service is essential for a fulfilling life. By prioritizing worship, we align ourselves with God’s will, finding true peace and joy. Let us follow Jesus’ example, starting with worship and allowing it to lead to heartfelt service. In doing so, we cultivate a deeper connection with God and experience spiritual fulfilment.
Application
Take time to implement these principles into your daily life. Begin each day with worship, integrate prayer into your tasks, and serve others with a heart that seeks to honor God.
Reflection Questions
At the end of each day, reflect on your experiences. How did your balance of worship and service impact your day? Did you feel more connected to God? Were you able to serve others more effectively? Use these reflections to adjust your approach and continue growing in your spiritual journey.
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