Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: but one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. Luke 10:38-42

Was Martha not accusing the Lord here of condoning or indulging Mary’s irresponsibility on hospitality, an act mandated by God Himself? Could she not have addressed Mary directly?

Indeed, they had a large party at hand (at least 15 people to receive at a go) so Martha may have had a cause, but that did not align with the Lord’s goal on use of time. Did He come to eat or communicate the Father’s will? Was this another case of John 4:32! Martha did not know that Jesus’ appointment placed priority on spiritual feeding over physical food. There was something else about Martha that’s evident from John 11:21-22. Was she another version of Peter? Forward, impetuous, sometimes acts as a “know better” kind of person?

Am I also quick to judge the Lord or others when their actions do not align with my view or way of doing things? See the Lord’s calm response! Today’s admonition calls for self-examination regarding my relationship with the Lord:

1. Who am I?
2. Do I show my love to God by service or by intimacy with Him, sitting at His feet!

Obviously, the latter is the Lord’s preference, after all His ultimate desire is to dwell with us.

Mary was a picture of contemplation and humility. Martha served others and was welcoming to guests, probably the older sister and leader in the house. She represented the outer activity of the soul (while Mary represented the inner activity). Martha’s work became the source of self-validation!

• Should this be?
• What defines you or validates you?

Our validation must singularly come from pleasing the Lord. Who supplies the grace that enables us to do the work? Is it not the Lord (Phil. 4:13)? How deep is my reliance on the Lord as against my own “capabilities”?

Of the many things available to us believers, what the Lord treasures is intimacy with Him. Until I put my relationship with the Lord at the centre of my life, I will struggle to find my true purpose and enjoy the fruits of my labours, enjoying and experiencing His joy and peace! Lord, help me in what I prioritize. Selah.


Pastor Afolabi Oladele