Learning at the Master’s Feet
“Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s
feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me. But the Lord answered her, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.â€
(Luke 10:38-42)
The story of Mary and Martha offers many valuable insights. We use the term insight because an insight, in addition to being discernment, also means introspection. In other words, this story allows us to see ourselves. Consider some interesting observations about this event:
1. It was Martha, not Mary, who initiated the visit (Lk. 10:38).
2. Mary, by sitting at the Lord’s feet, chose close proximity (Lk. 10:39).
3. Martha makes two pointed statements, not one (Lk. 10:40).
4. Although, Martha is concerned about Mary’s behavior, a closer look reveals that she directs both of her statements to Jesus: “…do you not care…?†and “Tell her…†(question and command) (Lk. 10:40).
5. The doublet, “Martha, Martha†shows Jesus’ tender concern (Lk. 10:41).
6. Since this is a comparative study, “Mary has chosen…†infers that Martha has also chosen (Lk. 10:42).
7. Is Jesus’ last comment, “which will not be taken away from her,†in force today through Bible-Study?
Won’t you sit at the Master’s feet today, and learn while you may?
-Robert M. Housby