Sitting at the Feet of Jesus

Setting your priorities straight and learning the importance of sitting under the teaching of the Word of God is foremost on Luke's mind when he tells the tale of two sisters. In Luke 10:38 the story begins when Jesus and His disciples arrive at their home in Bethany: "Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house."

"Martha welcomed Him" (v. 38b), "And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word" (v. 39). The story continues, "But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, 'Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me'" (v. 40).

As it says, "Martha was distracted" (v. 40a). Martha was fulfilling her societal recognized duties. In that society, the women served and the men sat under the teaching of a priest or rabbi. So, Martha was doing what was expected of her, but her frustration was with her sister Mary. Mary was with the disciples, sitting "at Jesus' feet" (v. 39) and listening to Him teach.

Now before you get too hard on Martha, understand that she was just doing her God-ordained duty. Mary was not. Martha was preparing a meal for Jesus and His disciples, who showed up unexpectedly. That is at least thirteen weary and hungry men! A big task to be handled alone. So Martha just expected Mary to do her duty and help.

That is why she approached Jesus and asked, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me" (v. 40b). Jesus replied, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her" (vs. 41b-42).

Jesus realized why Martha was frustrated. She had a lot on her plate with so many unexpected guests. But Jesus wanted her to understand that there is something better and Mary had chosen "the good part" (v. 42), or "what is better" (NIV). Serving your guests is important, but learning of Jesus is better.

So what do we take away from this? Finding a balance. Finding a way to balance serving our guests, which is important, and hearing God's Word taught, which is better. So, what do we do?

When guests are coming on Sunday, find a way to do what preparations you can in advance. Then, let your guests know that you are going to church, which is extremely important to you. Let them know they are welcome to join you in church. Then, after church, when you arrive home, you can finish your preparations.

If dinner is a little late, that's alright. No one will starve, and you will be respected for standing on your faith and convictions. Perhaps someone will even come to know Christ as their Savior as a result. Just be faithful to honor Jesus, sit at His feet in church, and learn of Him and His Word. That is "what is better" (v. 42b, NIV), or the "good part" (NKJV). Amen.