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Introduction
In the Gospel of Luke, chapter 10, verses 39-42, we find a story that has been debated and discussed for centuries. It is the story of two sisters, Mary and Martha, and their encounter with Jesus. The story has been interpreted in various ways, but its message is clear: we must prioritize our relationship with God above everything else.
The Story
Mary and Martha were sisters who lived in the same house. When Jesus came to visit, Martha was busy preparing the house and the food, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to him speak. Martha became upset with Mary and asked Jesus to tell her sister to help her. Jesus replied, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42).
Interpretations
One interpretation of this story is that Mary represents the contemplative life, while Martha represents the active life. Some argue that Jesus is saying that the contemplative life is better than the active life. However, this interpretation is limited and does not take into account the context of the story. Jesus is not saying that the active life is bad or less important. Rather, he is emphasizing the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God above everything else.
Another interpretation is that Jesus is highlighting the difference between serving God and serving ourselves. Martha was serving herself by being preoccupied with the tasks of hospitality, while Mary was serving God by sitting at Jesus’ feet and listening to him. Jesus is reminding us that our actions must be directed towards serving God, not ourselves.
The Message
The message of this story is clear: we must prioritize our relationship with God above everything else. We must not be so preoccupied with the tasks of life that we neglect our spiritual well-being. We must make time to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to him. This does not mean that we should neglect our responsibilities or stop serving others. Rather, it means that we must do everything with a heart that is focused on serving God.
Application
So, how can we apply this message to our lives? First, we must make time for God. We must prioritize our relationship with him above everything else. This means setting aside time each day to read the Bible, pray, and meditate on his word. Second, we must serve others with a heart that is focused on serving God. This means being intentional about our actions and doing everything with a spirit of love and compassion. Finally, we must not be so preoccupied with the tasks of life that we neglect our spiritual well-being. We must take care of ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually, so that we can be better equipped to serve God and others.
Conclusion
The story of Mary and Martha reminds us of the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God above everything else. We must not be so preoccupied with the tasks of life that we neglect our spiritual well-being. We must make time to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to him. We must serve others with a heart that is focused on serving God. May we all strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, and may we always prioritize our relationship with him above everything else.
