I'm such a Martha but want to be a Mary

Recently, a post caught my eye on social media, striking a chord deep within me. It delved into the biblical story of Martha and Mary, capturing the essence of their encounter with Jesus in a way that mirrored my own life's reflections. The narrative of these two sisters, as described in Luke 10:38-42, serves as a poignant reminder of the balance we often strive to find between action and contemplation.

Martha, engrossed in her duties, becomes a mirror reflecting our own tendencies to get absorbed in the day-to-day tasks, sometimes at the expense of our spiritual nourishment. Mary, on the other hand, opts for a different path — she chooses to sit at Jesus' feet, soaking in His words, embodying the peace that comes from prioritizing our spiritual well-being. Jesus' gentle rebuke of Martha not only highlights the importance of what Mary chose but also calls out to those of us who find ourselves in similar predicaments: "Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "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 NIV).

As someone who naturally gravitates towards being a doer, the idea of slowing down to embrace moments of quiet and connection with God is both appealing and challenging. The call to a more intimate relationship with Him, to a place where our souls can find true rest, is a journey that requires conscious effort, especially in a world that never stops moving.

The Psalmist offers a profound directive in Psalm 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." This invitation to stillness is not just about physical rest but about acknowledging God's omnipotence and allowing Him to lead our lives.

Embracing this invitation means making deliberate choices to spend time in His presence through prayer, meditation on His Word, and quiet reflection. It's about laying down our burdens at His feet, trusting Him to care for us beyond our immediate concerns (1 Peter 5:7). Each day offers a new opportunity to choose the better part, to live a life that values being with God as much as doing for Him.

Let us inspire each other to seek these sacred pauses, to cultivate a heart that yearns for God in the midst of our bustling lives. May we discover the peace and fulfillment that comes from prioritizing our spiritual health, finding our purpose not just in the tasks we accomplish but in the moments we spend in the presence of the Divine.

Wishing you moments of shalom and an encounter with The Creator today!