What does this story teach us? This passage invites us to take a close look at our priorities. We need to make Jesus and his word our first priority. We need to come to know Jesus better through prayer, reading Scripture and being part of a church community.
If we compare the two sisters, we notice that Martha is practical and impulsive but also welcoming, generous and hospitable. This is also seen in the story of Lazarus when Martha runs out to meet Jesus on his arrival in Bethany. Mary, on the other hand, is more reflective, loving and calm. She takes on a contemplative air and, in both passages, she is at the feet of Jesus, either listening or
weeping.
We all have our own spiritual path to follow. Some of us are more like Mary, while others are more Martha-like. We are likely to have the qualities of both sisters within us. There are times when we are busy and distracted and so our time with Jesus is short and even, I dare say, forgotten. The important thing to remember though is that being with Jesus is more important than serving
others.
As Christians, good works and service flow through us because we keep Jesus as the focus of our lives. We are empowered with the gifts of service and discipleship when we give all our attention to him.
Ask yourself these questions today:
Are my priorities in order?
Am I more like Mary or Martha?
Is being devoted to Jesus more important to me than doing good works?
