Content provided by Jenna Finkenhoefer

“Don’t be a “MARTHA” (Unless, of course, your name is Martha)

I’m sure you are familiar with the story of Martha and Mary (Luke 10: 38-42).

Each time I hear the story of Mary and Martha, especially the week of Thanksgiving, when my plate is literally overflowing with tasks to complete prior to the holiday, I can completely relate to Martha, and can appreciate her frustration with her sister Mary. “What the heck Mary? Can’t you see I’m busy here?!”

This year, my personal goal is to be more “Mary-like” in disposition, and try to set aside my “Martha-like” qualities. I’m choosing to spend a few extra minutes this week in prayer, and being present and appreciating the time we do have together with family and friends on the Holiday.

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. ³⁹ She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. ⁴⁰ But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

⁴¹ “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, ⁴² but few things are needed—or indeed only one.^[a] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”