What can we learn from Martha and Marys service to Jesus? CQ Kids

What can we learn from Martha and Mary’s service to Jesus?

Martha and Mary were sisters, and very close friends of Jesus.

In Luke, we read, “As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 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 only one thing is necessary; for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.’” (10:38,39 NIV; 40,41: English Standard Version; 42: NASB)

Martha was busy preparing the meal for everyone, which was a good service. Making food wasn’t the problem - everyone needs to eat. Martha wasn’t wrong for showing hospitality; she seemed overwhelmed because perhaps she had taken on too much.

Martha became upset because Mary wasn’t helping with the meal. And instead of talking to Mary privately, she brought her frustration to Jesus in front of the guests. This was not the right way to act.

Jesus did not disapprove of Martha wanting to serve food. However, he especially appreciated Mary using her time to humbly sit at his feet, listening to his wonderful words of life. We have to be careful not to let our faith only be about service - we have to study the words of God and Jesus, too!

Jesus had limited time on this earth. He was essentially saying, “I’m here now, but soon I will not be.” Jesus’ gentle message to Martha was to focus on the most important thing - in this case, learning from him while he was still there - which was exactly what Mary was doing.

Sometimes we can become frustrated like Martha. When we feel this way, do we criticize and lash out at others? Instead, let’s take a deep breath, calm down and then think about the most important thing we need to do at that moment.

So, what can we learn from Martha and Mary’s service to Jesus? First, we can check our attitude, especially if we’re performing a service for others. 1 Peter says, (4:9, Berean Standard Bible) “Show hospitality to one another without complaining.” Second, we can prioritize. The day Jesus visited Martha and Mary, fellowship and learning from him was more important than serving a big meal. Mary chose “the good part” by spending that limited time listening to the Savior.

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